tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61015002569861305582018-03-06T03:27:34.447-08:00Vantraveller“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.comBlogger229125TravellingWhere-everhttps://feedburner.google.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-69674317126138444132018-02-07T18:56:00.000-08:002018-02-07T18:56:00.403-08:00Race #83 - Great post-race buffet at the Galley Patio and Restaurant (Hypothermic Half Marathon)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UMFLiQrOMXQ/WnZzNa_1fNI/AAAAAAAAE38/EQEMHz5Mn6IvfWjA5QUICLCQgrrqCPMwQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180203_085731_HDR%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UMFLiQrOMXQ/WnZzNa_1fNI/AAAAAAAAE38/EQEMHz5Mn6IvfWjA5QUICLCQgrrqCPMwQCLcBGAs/s320/20180203_085731_HDR%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a>This was the first time I ever ran in the Hypothermic Half-Marathon. First of all, I would like to thank all my friends at the Running Room for your support in my pursuit for 100 races. The Hypothermic Half is a Half-Marathon/Full Marathon series across Canada organized by the Running Room. These races are community events where participant numbers are around 100 - 500. This event comes with a decent amount of swag. Each participant got a Running Room backpack (which retails at $59.99), a bib, a medal and a post race buffet.&nbsp;</div><div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DgdjQ2xfsA4/WnZx4f0YpjI/AAAAAAAAE3g/2epgdgdumdcCwZeSug2sDNC99UosKSgzwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180203_110053_HDR%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DgdjQ2xfsA4/WnZx4f0YpjI/AAAAAAAAE3g/2epgdgdumdcCwZeSug2sDNC99UosKSgzwCLcBGAs/s320/20180203_110053_HDR%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;The event features a double figure 8 loop starting at Jericho Sailing Center. It is pretty hard to find a location to host a race that is perfectly 21.1km, so that made sense to me from an operations perspective. The weather was thankfully very good and the skies were partly cloudly. On that note, the course was very beautiful, which definitely made it more fun to run considering that it was a repetitive loop.</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp;When the event finished, my favourite part was the post race breakfast buffet. It is not very common to see at an outdoors athletic event that uses ceramic and have a sit down place for food. The Jericho Sailing Center has a really nice restaurant that overlooks English Bay. The food selection and post race buffet was spectacular. From freshly baked croissants to sausages, eggs, waffles, hash browns, bacon and fruits, this is definitely one of the best post race buffets around. I am definitely fan girling around the fact that we get ceramic served food. I didn't eat too much though since I am not usually that hungry after a race, but I did have some food :p</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkdOKECMlWU/WnZyb4nJyeI/AAAAAAAAE3o/A-nC4HTXtxoLPv5gWxkBeBeD3XF-PVgWQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180203_110613_HDR%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkdOKECMlWU/WnZyb4nJyeI/AAAAAAAAE3o/A-nC4HTXtxoLPv5gWxkBeBeD3XF-PVgWQCLcBGAs/s320/20180203_110613_HDR%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/XzHTOz8_XlQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/02/race-83-great-post-race-buffet-at.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-44320409468576394492018-01-28T18:54:00.002-08:002018-01-28T18:54:35.070-08:00Race #82 - MEC Vancouver Race One <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Amxjninv5Y/Wm6HX8nEubI/AAAAAAAAE20/Nifae7N9yBMw4B4w9xlawJfLq2K8B_MaACLcBGAs/s1600/20180128_075422_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Amxjninv5Y/Wm6HX8nEubI/AAAAAAAAE20/Nifae7N9yBMw4B4w9xlawJfLq2K8B_MaACLcBGAs/s200/20180128_075422_HDR.jpg" width="112" /></a>The biggest thing about MEC events is the price. If you buy the season's pass, you can get all of their races for $12, or else each race is only $15. That is unbeatable in terms of the price on the market. I think MEC does not actually make money on this, but for them it's more of a marketing thing to bring people into their stores. That said, you get what you pay for when it comes to these MEC Events. A big reason why many events and races cost more is because there are huge overhead costs to running an event (insurance, permits, food, venue prices, staff, timing, swag and etc...). It's analogous to how there are budget airlines vs traditional airlines. There is a varying degree of how much is spent per event too from the organizing perspective. In terms of what is provided for the runners, the MEC events are more on an economical scale. But for many though, that is all they need. These races also don't support charity and they tend to rely heavily on their staff versus investing time and effort into volunteers. But hey, sometimes you don't need all that if you just want to race and nothing else.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JqhJwDcqZrA/Wm6IipeIykI/AAAAAAAAE3I/74DI-ssSs6Ud9Q7mBFaUwTZCZPHpgS-jwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180128_075424_HDR%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JqhJwDcqZrA/Wm6IipeIykI/AAAAAAAAE3I/74DI-ssSs6Ud9Q7mBFaUwTZCZPHpgS-jwCLcBGAs/s200/20180128_075424_HDR%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nuun Hydration</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-hJ_4hJDG0/Wm6HXddnamI/AAAAAAAAE2w/Ar14VizGMvUsD46R5yXz4QAVc4NuvKnhgCLcBGAs/s1600/20180128_083920_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-hJ_4hJDG0/Wm6HXddnamI/AAAAAAAAE2w/Ar14VizGMvUsD46R5yXz4QAVc4NuvKnhgCLcBGAs/s200/20180128_083920_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bathroom Lineup</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;The start and finish line areas of this race is pretty barebones. It has all the bells and whistles that a start/ finish line should have, such as an arch, some portapotties, coffee and bananas. KIND Snacks and Nuun Hydration was also there. They also had However, the choice of start/ finish was interesting as it was on a muddy field. The usual run for the washrooms before the event happened (I have plumbing issues too - anxiety...what do you expect? haha). As I mentioned before, because this race relies on staff, they have a strict schedule they stick to. They will shut down package pickup and registrations on time and they usually won't make exceptions. They send the staff to the various points on course.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The course was a loop around the seawall, starting and finishing at Devonian Park. The loop is a classic for many events that want a 10km distance (this is a certified distance by BC Athletics for other events such as the VFAC's Summerfast 10k and other races). It is gorgeous on a beautiful day to run around the sea wall, but on a day that's pouring rain and windy, it can be rather cold. That said, I enjoyed myself. Nothing better to wake you up than a cold shower right? I also enjoy the event because I got to catch up with many people from the running community whom I adore very much &lt;3<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Overall, I would definitely run the races again because the selling point is the really cheap race entry.<br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U9LXoia9EkE/Wm6HCC-q7nI/AAAAAAAAE2s/BHV87MkClhwu8ZmidiEiID-RKk_LdV07wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180128_084305_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U9LXoia9EkE/Wm6HCC-q7nI/AAAAAAAAE2s/BHV87MkClhwu8ZmidiEiID-RKk_LdV07wCLcBGAs/s320/20180128_084305_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/dQ1JaiZ1tUw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/race-82-mec-vancouver-race-one.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-79858461079898653252018-01-27T19:38:00.000-08:002018-01-27T20:19:00.266-08:00Quality Buffet for Under $10 and BEER INCLUDED?! (GrandVilla Casino Buffet) <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k64iC7Eiw8g/Wm1EgBR2p9I/AAAAAAAAE1w/xe7uwjQqk1w93z1HTF0N_jPI1moZoZLigCEwYBhgL/s1600/27329805_10155116900376135_775570959_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k64iC7Eiw8g/Wm1EgBR2p9I/AAAAAAAAE1w/xe7uwjQqk1w93z1HTF0N_jPI1moZoZLigCEwYBhgL/s200/27329805_10155116900376135_775570959_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An unlocked beer fridge</td></tr></tbody></table>There is no other place in Vancouver that has buffet that you can go to for around $12 (for lunch or $19ish for dinner) and get food that is of this quality.&nbsp; Sure, there are many buffets like <a href="https://vantraveller.blogspot.ca/2013/12/uncle-willys-metrotown.html">Uncle Willy's</a>&nbsp;which is relatively the same in terms of pricing but the quality is like comparing night and day. There are two buffet locations (at least the ones that I've been to, which are the ones in Starlight Casino and Grand Villa Casino) and they both are run by the same company so the pricing and food selection is almost identical. In addition, you don't need to gamble to eat here (like for me, I don't gamble). For this review, I'll focus on my most recent visit to the Grand Villa Casino for lunch.<br />There's a free shuttle that can take you from Metrotown to Gilmore station right to the casino. They have 2 for 1 deals sometimes (which means you can be dining here for $7 per person), and I would go with my mother or friends. We took the shuttle from Metrotown to the Casino and on the shuttle it was all full of retired people. The minute we got off the shuttle, there was a bit of a feeding time at the zoo feeling with everyone trying to rush off the bus at the same time to go to the buffet.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kbLFNCZKSiA/Wm1EifKPE_I/AAAAAAAAE2U/zOAPk7XjjzkuQQd8BiRah6npp9Av7oEWwCEwYBhgL/s1600/27335438_10155116900286135_1876539646_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kbLFNCZKSiA/Wm1EifKPE_I/AAAAAAAAE2U/zOAPk7XjjzkuQQd8BiRah6npp9Av7oEWwCEwYBhgL/s320/27335438_10155116900286135_1876539646_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assortment of soups</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;Once you pass security on the second floor with your ID, the buffet is conveniently located on the second floor. Since we were here only for the buffet, we went straight to the line. There we had to register our names. The host took down our names and then gave us a pager (I am not sure what to call those, but it reminded me of the ones doctors wear at the hospital). The wait was about 20 minutes, so we headed up stairs to see if there is a place to hangout until our pager beeps.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UNzArh5Z0YY/Wm1ElNx9CMI/AAAAAAAAE2E/dvDPj1WVInkLCeH8NqmOoqQECSVpc6bfgCEwYBhgL/s1600/27393309_10155116900261135_728778767_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UNzArh5Z0YY/Wm1ElNx9CMI/AAAAAAAAE2E/dvDPj1WVInkLCeH8NqmOoqQECSVpc6bfgCEwYBhgL/s200/27393309_10155116900261135_728778767_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pager thing</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Syv6jMmydOo/Wm1El5Tx1WI/AAAAAAAAE2M/5U1QGuC_i5g_2cOpWtNM9eYDlwHYcHFwgCLcBGAs/s1600/27393986_10155116900336135_161687513_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Syv6jMmydOo/Wm1El5Tx1WI/AAAAAAAAE2M/5U1QGuC_i5g_2cOpWtNM9eYDlwHYcHFwgCLcBGAs/s200/27393986_10155116900336135_161687513_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your greens and carbs</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;Upstairs, there are machines that are beside the entrance where you can swipe your Encore Rewards Card (If you don't have one, I recommend getting one because you get a discount at the Buffet) to ballots (I don't even know what this is for) and sometimes it spits out a 2 for 1 coupon at the buffet.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;After 20 minutes, our pager beeped and we headed back to the Buffet. Using that 2 for 1 coupon, we got in for around $7 per person. It didn't take long before we were seated and able to go and grab food. It's worthwhile to note that I probably bring down the average age of the whole dining area by a ton (in other words, everyone here is pretty old...). When it comes to entrees, they have a set of two types of soup (usually one meat and one vegetable). After the soup, there is a salad bar section where there is an assortment of cold salads (such as potato salad, macaroni salad and cold noodles). They also have things like lettuce and condiments that accompany it. After the salads, is the entrees which usually includes rice, vegetables and some sort of stir fry and fish. When we were there, there was macaroni and cheese and tortilla chips. The tortilla chips tasted a bit moist because it was inside a chafing dish and just absorbing water. There was also fish (but I tend to avoid fish because I wasn't sure if it was farmed - farmed fish poses a health risk).<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGJkFtxqogc/Wm1EjTfEzTI/AAAAAAAAE2A/1BT1CDzHg_IngtF_kzSMc2gVz0MCQf42QCEwYBhgL/s1600/27393277_10155116900396135_443356841_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGJkFtxqogc/Wm1EjTfEzTI/AAAAAAAAE2A/1BT1CDzHg_IngtF_kzSMc2gVz0MCQf42QCEwYBhgL/s320/27393277_10155116900396135_443356841_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salad</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XzHal_wX5as/Wm1EhpI-R5I/AAAAAAAAE14/dpku_5WqqMYUgLAS-v2-kSfuAVqWoHT_gCEwYBhgL/s1600/27330472_10155116900341135_956122630_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XzHal_wX5as/Wm1EhpI-R5I/AAAAAAAAE14/dpku_5WqqMYUgLAS-v2-kSfuAVqWoHT_gCEwYBhgL/s320/27330472_10155116900341135_956122630_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tortilla and zombified dinner breads</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;On the other side of the dining is the drinks and desserts section. For the first time, I saw a cooler with BEER! I am not even kidding, it was unlocked and it seemed like you can just grab one. I am not sure if it's actually included in the buffet (but you can check if you go). It was next to the coca cola machine, unlocked...&nbsp; I am personally not a fan of alcohol so I didn't drink it at all and didn't bother asking, but it was cool to see what you can get for less than 10 bucks. The desserts section is also pretty good. They have a wide assortment of cakes and also things like cream puffs. My favourite dessert however, is the ice cream. I love to put my ice cream inside of my ice cream.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zX7wCTwMMEM/Wm1EdFEpsdI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/ObWGeDa1FpMJIoiOVYbheE0-ZqCVgvprACEwYBhgL/s1600/27329502_10155116900211135_1836344463_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zX7wCTwMMEM/Wm1EdFEpsdI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/ObWGeDa1FpMJIoiOVYbheE0-ZqCVgvprACEwYBhgL/s320/27329502_10155116900211135_1836344463_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got to feed that sweet tooth</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LlmSxnGxSGY/Wm1EdMuAwKI/AAAAAAAAE2c/Lm1EyFSCCtoqmJY6JDeKmKsLBXh23ZTAACEwYBhgL/s320/27329439_10155116900016135_1040664227_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep feeding that sweet tooth, just don't get cavities</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LlmSxnGxSGY/Wm1EdMuAwKI/AAAAAAAAE2c/Lm1EyFSCCtoqmJY6JDeKmKsLBXh23ZTAACEwYBhgL/s1600/27329439_10155116900016135_1040664227_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>&nbsp;Overall, I love this place. Even though I don't eat everything because a part of me is health conscious and my butt screams each time I eat too too much, I love the fact that you can choose whatever you want to eat here. <span id="goog_539374285"></span><span id="goog_539374286"></span>The cons are that you can't really bring family here because it's 19+ and that I am not a big fan of gambling. However, for what you get out of the price you pay for, it is definitely worth your trip!<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/uNUn9BhYlFE" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/quality-buffet-for-under-10-and-beer.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-9585105965066379612018-01-26T20:18:00.002-08:002018-01-26T20:19:38.224-08:00"Is that a dinosaur?" - Beaty Biodiversity Museum UBC Overview and Tips<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Db5kjCR5gh8/Wmv8lBkd0LI/AAAAAAAAE1A/aOTWIE9eR-g7UGX5nyFE3uaswvGwCWrbACEwYBhgL/s1600/27479767_10155119699181135_438795515_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Db5kjCR5gh8/Wmv8lBkd0LI/AAAAAAAAE1A/aOTWIE9eR-g7UGX5nyFE3uaswvGwCWrbACEwYBhgL/s200/27479767_10155119699181135_438795515_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My feet compared to a dinosaur's</td></tr></tbody></table>The Beaty Biodiversity Museum has got to be one of the coolest places to visit for both UBC students and the general public. From the outside, you can see this big blue whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling (or to some they think it's a dinosaur). I used to walk by here during the times I was doing my degree and I came in here a few times to check it out (it was free for students). However, it was hard to appreciate the things in here in its full entirety as a student as my priorities were dedicated to exams and graduating.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iphvl-oPe0s/Wmv8iMneHxI/AAAAAAAAE0w/bUjfRr_NjgcDWR_FbIdl606eYzGpm_OCgCLcBGAs/s1600/27398186_10155119699551135_1059702957_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iphvl-oPe0s/Wmv8iMneHxI/AAAAAAAAE0w/bUjfRr_NjgcDWR_FbIdl606eYzGpm_OCgCLcBGAs/s320/27398186_10155119699551135_1059702957_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The big blue whale&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;I decided to come back here today as I saw a 2 for 1 deal on Groupon (UBC Alumni gets a 2 for 1 deal already). There was a "save 20%" deal on Groupon and I used <a href="https://www.ebates.ca/referrer?referrerid=IWRwkDXQMA8%3D">Ebates</a>&nbsp;so the total came to less than $12 for 2 people (which was roughly 75% off the regular price). I came here with my&nbsp;+1 as he loves animals (and I do too, but I'm a nerd and loves everything) and we were in the area for a meeting.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; The museum itself isn't super fancy, but it has all the bells and whistles a museum should have. There is a mini-gift shop, a small cafe (which I believe is closed) and an admissions desk at the top level. Upon showing my groupon, the volunteer at the admissions desk checked it off of my app.<br />No flash photography, foods or drinks are allowed in the museum. After entering the lower level through a ramp, you enter the main hall area where there are some displays and the entrance to the theatre. Inside the theatre, they feature a documentary on how the big blue whale skeleton was found. The movie wasn't playing when we were here.<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WE_RGOJ15ig/Wmv8fWSdq-I/AAAAAAAAE1I/0dHWn85p9fcj9apMgHarU3QpR3wIYdavACEwYBhgL/s1600/27393183_10155119699541135_1836136525_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WE_RGOJ15ig/Wmv8fWSdq-I/AAAAAAAAE1I/0dHWn85p9fcj9apMgHarU3QpR3wIYdavACEwYBhgL/s320/27393183_10155119699541135_1836136525_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp; After walking past the main hall, you will see rows upon rows of black shelves (I am not sure what you would call them... maybe cabinet? We'll call them shelves - lack of a better term). There were over 30 rows of shelves. It looked sort of like a library at a glance. However, once we walked into the first row, it was impressive to see the displays. The very first row is a display of animals that went through taxidermy encased in glass cabinets. There were so many of them. For each animal class, there were numerous species in display. From goats to jaguars to different kinds of birds, insects and their eggs. This row was mainly an overview row I think. However, I genuinely enjoyed the captions that the animals had.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbzZVDqAzSc/Wmv8gNCtn6I/AAAAAAAAE1I/HTp1vh1QkL0IR0dppk82tsGqqE4dZ7IZwCEwYBhgL/s1600/27398177_10155119699476135_935716295_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbzZVDqAzSc/Wmv8gNCtn6I/AAAAAAAAE1I/HTp1vh1QkL0IR0dppk82tsGqqE4dZ7IZwCEwYBhgL/s320/27398177_10155119699476135_935716295_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />&nbsp; We decided to start from the back and work our way forward. The very back section of the museum contained fossils of plants. If you keep walking into the sections, there are displays in the ground (such as a dinosaur feet). While we were comparing our feet to the dinosaur's, a volunteer was pushing a cart with a bunch of bird feet. It wasn't encased in anything, so we decided to take a closer look. The volunteer also had pictures (like full body ones) of each bird and she was showing us how birds that prey have clawed feet while birds that swim would have webbed feet. Looking at the wide variety of specimens of different bird legs was interesting as it painted a story on how animals adapted to their environments.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; During our conversation with the volunteer, I asked her if many students visited here. To my surprise, she said no. She was mentioning how ignorant some students were and how some students actually asked her if the big blue whale skeleton over the main hall was a dinosaur. I had a chuckle when I heard that (the skeleton didn't even have legs, how can it be a dinosaur?!). She also referred us to the hands on area hidden at the back and how we can feel some of the taxidermy animals.<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn3grPMC_ow/Wmv8bBtntaI/AAAAAAAAE0Q/6_Y0Hxh2JrEar7DCEWMpfxoiiIpEqP-zwCEwYBhgL/s1600/27335491_10155119699216135_740915797_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn3grPMC_ow/Wmv8bBtntaI/AAAAAAAAE0Q/6_Y0Hxh2JrEar7DCEWMpfxoiiIpEqP-zwCEwYBhgL/s320/27335491_10155119699216135_740915797_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp; The hands on area was like a classroom. Before you are able do anything hands on, the volunteers would ask you to wash your hands (understandably, as you are touching fragile specimens). In the back of this hands on section were cabinets. When we were here, a volunteer had one open and inside were jars of animals placed in formaldehyde. My eyes grew wide open as I started to question what they were. Before we knew it, we were in a deep conversation with the volunteer and he opened every cabinet to show us everything they had. There were very interesting things from road kill (like skunks) to turtles, fossils and more. They even had taxidermy of many types of birds (they didn't do the eye part too well on this part, but it was cool to see none-the-less.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNhGCt4wXEw/Wmv8j4Q5_MI/AAAAAAAAE08/SEQ-871_-d45S9wEq0clkVaGgSaCKnOcgCEwYBhgL/s1600/27399163_10155119699211135_341609849_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNhGCt4wXEw/Wmv8j4Q5_MI/AAAAAAAAE08/SEQ-871_-d45S9wEq0clkVaGgSaCKnOcgCEwYBhgL/s320/27399163_10155119699211135_341609849_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hands on section of the museum</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; Overall, there is more to the experience than I can write with this post. There are so many different animals and things you can learn about the living world here. From the animal kingdom to the fungus, there are specimens from all 5 kingdoms of the living world. Moreover, this place is actually used by researchers, so it is interesting to know that by going to the museum, you are contributing to research efforts as well as recognizing the work that many people put in, in the field of life sciences. Whether it's kids young and old, I definitely recommend coming here. The amount of things you learn is well worth it.<br /><br />Tips:<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NiEjq_V_kzw/Wmv8ciZGNVI/AAAAAAAAE1Q/D7pdJVpWGBUpytcyl6b3X0mSkGNySMA6QCEwYBhgL/s1600/27335795_10155119698386135_1931798311_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NiEjq_V_kzw/Wmv8ciZGNVI/AAAAAAAAE1Q/D7pdJVpWGBUpytcyl6b3X0mSkGNySMA6QCEwYBhgL/s320/27335795_10155119698386135_1931798311_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the sections inside the rows upon rows of displays.</td></tr></tbody></table><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>If you want to save money, take public transit (remember, it's $1.75 per every half hour of parking at UBC, and no there's no combo pricing for anywhere under 6 hours)</li><li>Students, faculty and staff go in for free, alumni can get in with a 2-for-1 deal.</li><li>If you are not associated with UBC, you can get a Groupon for a 2-for-1 (they are not always available, however when the Groupon is available and you combine it with a Groupon sale) and then a further 6% off with <a href="https://www.ebates.ca/referrer?referrerid=IWRwkDXQMA8%3D&amp;src=Link">Ebates</a>.</li><li>Website:&nbsp;http://beatymuseum.ubc.ca/</li></ul></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/WwbxOaSXkRM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/is-that-dinosaur-beatty-biodiversity.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-59388491796404547902018-01-23T22:11:00.001-08:002018-01-23T22:25:12.168-08:00"Iraashaiiiiiiiiiiii" Jinya Ramen Metrotown Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwWacd5dJok/Wmgg4qJrD4I/AAAAAAAAEz0/mGuZg_nRxGwtstHmU2WF7s9UUOHbckj6QCLcBGAs/s1600/27393382_10155111793786135_1044513771_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwWacd5dJok/Wmgg4qJrD4I/AAAAAAAAEz0/mGuZg_nRxGwtstHmU2WF7s9UUOHbckj6QCLcBGAs/s200/27393382_10155111793786135_1044513771_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table upon being seated</td></tr></tbody></table>The moment you walk into Jinya, the first thing you will notice is the decor. Out of all ramen places that I've been to, this place is a bit on the fancier end for decor. You can tell that they have taken some time into designing their shop. They take more of a contemporary style of design compared to other ramen places I've been to.<br /><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-4AWrwftbw/WmggzR7FTpI/AAAAAAAAEzc/9U_alTIeSHQwTrQPUj7TLTyDkUIjKq73QCLcBGAs/s1600/27265104_10155111793931135_944592317_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T-4AWrwftbw/WmggzR7FTpI/AAAAAAAAEzc/9U_alTIeSHQwTrQPUj7TLTyDkUIjKq73QCLcBGAs/s200/27265104_10155111793931135_944592317_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vegetable ramen</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;This place is very busy by the looks of it. What is cool is that you can leave your phone with them and they can text you when there are seats for you. Alternatively, you can wait there (there is not much of a waiting area though...). The waiting area in front of the host feels more like a crowded elevator as there really isn't much space for anyone to wait. In the summer time, I can see that people can wait outside or on the patio. However, during the winter time, that would be unpractical. If you want to avoid long waits, I suggest coming here before lunch hour or after lunch and before dinner or after dinner times.The seating itself is usually shared (so you are either on the big table with many other people or at the bar). If you are looking for a place to bring your whole family, just be aware you maybe placed with other people due to the nature of the store.&nbsp;</div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfppZQUlewU/Wmgg3xGyH3I/AAAAAAAAEzw/i6JZDgFC0E8nC7Rn-nXaceN8UJYuRpLDwCLcBGAs/s1600/27335377_10155111793841135_1420102816_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfppZQUlewU/Wmgg3xGyH3I/AAAAAAAAEzw/i6JZDgFC0E8nC7Rn-nXaceN8UJYuRpLDwCLcBGAs/s200/27335377_10155111793841135_1420102816_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wide Angle of the restaurant&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>I was here with my mom for lunch, and I decided to order the Chicken Ramen with the kaedama (which was the noodle refill for $1.50) while she ordered the Vegetable Ramen. There were other things on the menu besides ramen such as sides (tempura) and drinks. They also had a very interesting looking kids meal ($12 and it includes tempura and other things in a small boat together with a small bowl of ramen. The pricing of all bowls of ramen were around $12 - $15 - which is slightly higher than average but it was good.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gyYbr2NSraU/Wmgg14ZhjBI/AAAAAAAAEzo/2rvNbZ9LFHEjY484lOlVfVFDUnOE0-uwgCLcBGAs/s1600/27267597_10155111793881135_782791914_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gyYbr2NSraU/Wmgg14ZhjBI/AAAAAAAAEzo/2rvNbZ9LFHEjY484lOlVfVFDUnOE0-uwgCLcBGAs/s200/27267597_10155111793881135_782791914_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Menu</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; After we ordered, It didn't take too long for the ramen to come, and the portions were pretty fair. The vegetable ramen looked very interesting... Besides having a vegetable soup base and the ramen noodles, they seem to dump a salad ontop of the ramen. So when the bowl of vegetable ramen came, it looked more like a salad than ramen. The chicken ramen was pretty interesting too. When I got my ramen, I asked for the kaedama to come at the same time. Then I put the kaedama into the bowl and then added three spoons of spicy sauce. The noodles sucked up all of the broth, so I had a bowl of semi- spaghetti like noodles. When I started eating, the three spoons of spicy sauce was wayyy too much. By the time I finished, I was already sweating all over with a runny nose... That aside, it was pretty good. The thing I like about their ramen is the broth isn't too greasy and the noodles (whole grain) and the broth feels real (there are some places that just use powder and you can really taste that.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66e_uD1NIjw/Wmgg2p4tZ3I/AAAAAAAAEzs/ov_pBh-DegA3oq3ukT2UrJg0Lb2-DI-QgCLcBGAs/s1600/27330162_10155111793846135_448583838_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66e_uD1NIjw/Wmgg2p4tZ3I/AAAAAAAAEzs/ov_pBh-DegA3oq3ukT2UrJg0Lb2-DI-QgCLcBGAs/s200/27330162_10155111793846135_448583838_o.jpg" width="200" /></a>The funniest part about this restaurant is that everyone shouts to the top of their lungs Japanese phrases (like they do in Japan). Things like "Irasharimase" which means welcome, and things like how many customers there are coming in and etc... It does feel nice to have such a warm welcoming. However, not being too judgmental or anything (I learned Japanese for a few years while my mom did her bachelor's degree in Japan), the pronunciation of the phrases the waiters and waitresses were shouting were pretty off. I'll give them credit for trying, but I can see someone who speaks fluent Japanese would find the dining experience pretty funny. Overall, I like this place and would definitely come back again.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/1vZVa0D91_A" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/iraashaiiiiiiiiiiii-jinya-ramen.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-68261584613019392932018-01-21T21:03:00.004-08:002018-01-21T21:32:21.065-08:00Race #81 - Steveston Ice Breaker 8km and Steveston Bakery <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">For those have been following me along my journey (thank you so much &lt;3) knows that I am trying to complete 100 races before I am 25 in attempt to raise awareness for mental and liver health. For the next 20 races, I will make an effort to post about the race/event experience (for now, it will be on vantraveller.com, but I will probably migrate that to my own website down the road).<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-29zslpV3Nxk/WmVvwl2xKHI/AAAAAAAAEy4/6LMpFqQtr5Uy8MTA-AeNzW87Lv3O_XZUwCEwYBhgL/s1600/27145019_10155105914186135_1815434120_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-29zslpV3Nxk/WmVvwl2xKHI/AAAAAAAAEy4/6LMpFqQtr5Uy8MTA-AeNzW87Lv3O_XZUwCEwYBhgL/s320/27145019_10155105914186135_1815434120_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of finish line food</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br />Race #81 - Steveston Ice Breaker 8km and Steveston Bakery&nbsp;</b><br /><br />Holy Wind! I think nothing explains the concept of how jet streams work better than today. The course was an out and back from the docks near Steveston eastward along the water and then back. The reason why it reminds me of jet streams is that when an airplane is flying on a jet stream, it's so much faster than when it's flying against it. It's the reason why planes fly faster one way (the way that's in the direction of the jet stream) versus the other way (against it).<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e14MQtSWbqI/WmVvvzB9JEI/AAAAAAAAEyw/JN_gO1ktvB0nGkZ_zGnuCkIQgTV1xsr7ACLcBGAs/s1600/27140588_10155105942406135_1323435394_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e14MQtSWbqI/WmVvvzB9JEI/AAAAAAAAEyw/JN_gO1ktvB0nGkZ_zGnuCkIQgTV1xsr7ACLcBGAs/s200/27140588_10155105942406135_1323435394_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Croissant from the Steveston Bakery</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;The day started with one of my best friends and I driving to Steveston, the wind was blowing like haywire. When we arrived, the community center wasn't opened yet, so we waited outside for a bit until they were open. Once it was opened, we quickly grabbed our race packages. The race packages itself was nothing too noteworthy, all it included was the race bib, pins and some coupons for New Balance. After we got our packages, we went on a hunt for food (there were no pre-event food besides water, so we had to wait until after the race yet we were starving).<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;During our hunt, the Steveston Bakery was open... and what a CUTEEE bakery that was. Since it was early in the morning, the seating area were full of seniors and they were just the most adorable people. They were super curious about our race bibs and the race and we began chatting. The owner was super personable and nice too. If there is something that tugs at my soft spot, it's the small family owned bakery feeling. I can tell that everything was made in house and that they took a lot of time (probably up at 4AM making it). I ended up getting a small cheese croissant and boy that was good. The cheddar cheese inside that croissant and the fact that it wasn't overly greasy really gave it a good touch.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pso1EXpgCtc/WmVvwdH-KkI/AAAAAAAAEy0/Sdn8CZ62mYsZR3sBtKI8sYXbqmNY6VZLQCLcBGAs/s1600/27144861_10155105942421135_1996237173_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pso1EXpgCtc/WmVvwdH-KkI/AAAAAAAAEy0/Sdn8CZ62mYsZR3sBtKI8sYXbqmNY6VZLQCLcBGAs/s320/27144861_10155105942421135_1996237173_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The insides of the Steveston Bakery, it was so cute &lt;3</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; Soon after we finished at the Bakery, we headed back to the Steveston Community Center where we changed and then left our non-running clothes in her car. The event also provided bag check, but we thought it was easier for us to leave it in her car.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;The actual start line was a few blocks from the Steveston Community Center (which was were the pre-event package pickup and post-event celebration). It was definitely a bit far in-terms of the relative distance from the start line/ finish line and the event celebration site. However, I can understand given the nature of where the start line/ finish line is (such as the availability of space and weather) that it would be hard to house all the festivities and food there.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;The event didn't have a start line arch this year (I'd imagine they would have it otherwise, but the wind today was CRAZY. 40km/hr+ at least.&nbsp;. he event was also self seeded with a mass start, but most people had no problem finding their place in the starting chute.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0oIQS_mg12Q/WmVvxR4Z9QI/AAAAAAAAEzM/xrXqXA47DosORWulmKtcLIHiK0HR59b2wCEwYBhgL/s1600/27145083_10155105914411135_326943818_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0oIQS_mg12Q/WmVvxR4Z9QI/AAAAAAAAEzM/xrXqXA47DosORWulmKtcLIHiK0HR59b2wCEwYBhgL/s320/27145083_10155105914411135_326943818_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start / finish line of the Steveston 8km</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;The course itself was pretty in the sense that if the weather was good, the water on the south side was gorgeous with the sun rising. However, with the wind, it was hard to keep my eyes open. On the first 4 kilometers, it was VERY DIFFICULT because of the wind. The course was running eastward and the wind was moving westward. There was a lot of resistance running into the wind. The moment that I passed the 4 kilometer mark, it was amazing to feel the wind push me forward from the back.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DjHTLkDZpIc/WmVvuCwV-8I/AAAAAAAAEys/TkqurERgxKgs-KYhJjCSOi332xQxcyt_ACLcBGAs/s1600/27049192_10155105914231135_2068915327_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DjHTLkDZpIc/WmVvuCwV-8I/AAAAAAAAEys/TkqurERgxKgs-KYhJjCSOi332xQxcyt_ACLcBGAs/s200/27049192_10155105914231135_2068915327_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post event door prizes</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; The course's elevation change was not that much besides small inclines here and there. Overall, you can call this race a flat race. I had a fun time running the race (I have an over active imagination, so I definitely felt like I was an airplane). It took me about 34 minutes to run the 8km (which wasn't the fastest... but the thing I learned about racing is to just try your best on given conditions on the day of the event). Mind you, this event draws out track athletes, so be prepared to see a faster crowder than your average community race. The finish line was fun though, I stayed for a bit for people I knew to finish, and to give them high 5's.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DYF7EUCbwS4/WmVvydsV1UI/AAAAAAAAEzM/fup5Vc6WwFQXaHu8OU4nx_Te-uSNUtnJgCEwYBhgL/s1600/27264952_10155105914261135_2027961136_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DYF7EUCbwS4/WmVvydsV1UI/AAAAAAAAEzM/fup5Vc6WwFQXaHu8OU4nx_Te-uSNUtnJgCEwYBhgL/s320/27264952_10155105914261135_2027961136_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post event food</td></tr></tbody></table>The walk from the finish line to Stevenston Community Center was slightly cold. I was cooled down already (because of sweat), so the few hundred meters we had to walk to the Community Center was cold (and the wind didn't help). That said, the food at the Community Center was amazing. They were able to get people like Subway, Boston Pizza, KIND Snacks to sponsor. In addition, they also had fruits and muffins (made by the lady who owned Steveston Bakery!), coffee, water and krispy kreme. The food part was spectacular and very well done. The other part that was cool was the number of door prizes there were. I was surprised how many prizes they had (I won a MEC race series ticket). Overall, this was a cute community race. It brought together volunteers from the community and the Kajaks and I love that about this race.<br /><br />Tips:<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Weather can be unpredictable because of the date of the event, so be prepared.&nbsp;</li><li>Make sure to plan transport, if you cannot drive here, I would imagine it would be harder to come here via public transit, especially on a Sunday morning.</li><li>Register early. The earlier you register, the cheaper it is.&nbsp;</li></ul></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/sCioxX6qeDM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/race-81-steveston-ice-breaker-8km-and.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-36885928511332314812018-01-20T14:50:00.002-08:002018-01-20T14:50:56.754-08:00Time to get your inner geek out! A Halloween Night at Wayne Manor (Brock House Restuarant) Event Recap <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NauslFxrtT4/WmPGEAfjJUI/AAAAAAAAEx8/DPxk5KTn-xgehEtCTmZrPtD1T7lR6xVtQCLcBGAs/s1600/27016787_10155100553436135_1988879694_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NauslFxrtT4/WmPGEAfjJUI/AAAAAAAAEx8/DPxk5KTn-xgehEtCTmZrPtD1T7lR6xVtQCLcBGAs/s200/27016787_10155100553436135_1988879694_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The reception area</td></tr></tbody></table>This was one of the most unique events I have ever been to (it was from October, I was a bit late in posting this) A good friend of mine had an extra ticket to "A Halloween Night at Wayne Manor" at Brock House Restaurant and she invited me to go. What an experience it was! A fully immersive theatrical event where there were actors acting out parts from the Batman movie coupled with good food from the restaurant and all guests dressed up (except me...) really made this a spectacular event. Put on by the Geekenders, it was nice to see so many actors who were so passionate about what they do. Just a warning, if you are coming to an event like this, be sure to dress up. My friend and I didn't dress up because we just assumed it was a casual dinner with no dress code, but we were wrong... haha.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;When we arrived, the parking in the surrounding areas were full so we parked a few blocks away. The Brock House restaurant is a vintage house built in the 1900's. It's more of a mansion than a house (especially in modern day Vancouver where houses are getting smaller and smaller) and it definitely has some historical significance to it. It was definitely majestic to see the house from the outside as the building felt like it was from another era (one where Vancouver was probably more affordable).<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NQLfKGlvXVE/WmPGVaaV3uI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/6jj6-maugG4hyRbCkcyOUVw2QBTWP0LrACLcBGAs/s1600/27048599_10155100553441135_746979640_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NQLfKGlvXVE/WmPGVaaV3uI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/6jj6-maugG4hyRbCkcyOUVw2QBTWP0LrACLcBGAs/s320/27048599_10155100553441135_746979640_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The appetizers&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;From the entrance of the Brock House, a small line up of people attending the event can be seen. Everyone was dressed in suits and gowns so at that instant, I felt abit weird. Once the line started moving and we were on the porch and inside the restaurant, we were greeted by people from Geekenders. They were all dressed up and really contributed to the vintage and classy feel that the Batman movie portrayed.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;After we finished with the coat check, and got our champagne tickets, our attention immediately shifted to one of the characters trying to show the upstairs venue to a bunch of guests. To be honest, I am a nerd, but I'm not much of a Batman nerd so I don't really know many of the characters (that explains my choice of clothing). It was only a few moments into the event, I was already impressed.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;The main dining hall had some characters playing and singing on the piano and food. The first hour was the appetizers which included cheese, crackers and vegetables. There were also olives and a cheese platter. All around were characters acting out scenes. There were also photographers (one was a character from Batman) walking around with vintage cameras to take pictures. After about an hour, this was when the entrees and appetizers came out.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlhaaCLc5Wo/WmPGNmeZ32I/AAAAAAAAEyA/rwmhJ-g6p9IFaki6OZ5FwT3324cSkCJgQCLcBGAs/s1600/27048797_10155100552821135_195078497_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlhaaCLc5Wo/WmPGNmeZ32I/AAAAAAAAEyA/rwmhJ-g6p9IFaki6OZ5FwT3324cSkCJgQCLcBGAs/s320/27048797_10155100552821135_195078497_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The self serve entree bar</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; The appetizers were exquisite. From spring rolls to smoked salmon on cream cheese and cucumbers to mini quiches to skewers with bacon and asparagus, the selection was quite well done. The taste of them and the quantity were very well done. I personally loved the smoked salmon (I think I had at least 10 pieces because I don't eat smoke salmon often).&nbsp;<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; In addition to the appetizers the main dish was a self serve bar where you can choose things like shrimp, fish, meat, pasta, vegetables and more and there are live chefs there cooking for you. I had some shrimp mixed with pasta and some white sauce. It was sooo good. There weren't many places to sit, but they had chairs lined up on the side of the dining hall.&nbsp;<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AAVaYmTyvRw/WmPGUbGxNnI/AAAAAAAAEyM/dh3R7yvtwaEbehL0MzU1whcFaMp6IQYTgCLcBGAs/s1600/27017181_10155100552651135_1006977284_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AAVaYmTyvRw/WmPGUbGxNnI/AAAAAAAAEyM/dh3R7yvtwaEbehL0MzU1whcFaMp6IQYTgCLcBGAs/s320/27017181_10155100552651135_1006977284_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Press Release" from the Mayor of Gotham City</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; The highlight of the night happened after the dinner was served. The actor who played the mayor suddenly appeared on the elevated steps of the dining hall and everyone gathered around him. There were actors in the crowd who were portraying journalists and asking him questions about the mayor's decisions on building a psych ward. All of a sudden, the lights went out and the joker appeared. The joker and his gang took over the stage. Soon after, the lights went out again and the next thing we knew, Batman showed up to tied up the mischiefs. The scene was saved and then Bruce Wayne (the actor portraying Bruce Wayne) showed up. This was really well done in my opinion.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;After this scene, everyone dispersed to grab drinks. I think this was when the ball was supposed to happen. However, most people decided to just grab a drink a chat rather than dance. My friend and I decided to go upstairs and see what people were up to. To our surprise, we found the dessert section.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GyMgzxCPX6A/WmPGT_bjYPI/AAAAAAAAEyE/3jAu66z9D78F3k5ttlDcmQZqajlSfcmwwCLcBGAs/s1600/27017350_10155100552876135_636065738_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GyMgzxCPX6A/WmPGT_bjYPI/AAAAAAAAEyE/3jAu66z9D78F3k5ttlDcmQZqajlSfcmwwCLcBGAs/s320/27017350_10155100552876135_636065738_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dessert selection</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;The desserts were amazing. There was a volunteer from the Geekenders there at the dessert table and we briefly chatted. He had a very slim face and a sort of natural evil look (like a resting bitch face, but a resting evil look instead).&nbsp; It turned out he played the evil character in many movies and had small roles in movies such as Deadpool. He also has his own IMDB profile and his own acting classes. Together with mingling with actors were the desserts. The dessert selection was quite amazing too. They had cream puffs, chocolate mousses, a variety of cakes and fruits. My favourite was the chocolate mousse. I've never had mousse like this in a cup before so it was quite special.&nbsp; The other desserts were good too. The selections were quite good in my opinion.<br />&nbsp; Before we left, we discovered in one of the side rooms, there were coffee. I think that coffee room was sort of like the "introvert's corner" of the event. There were a wide variety of coffee and tea and people we were there by themselves and away from the acts happening outside.<br />&nbsp; Overall, what an event! It was quite well done. Besides the part where people didn't really dance, overall the event was so well done. The food and drinks selection was amazing. Together with the immersive action from the Batman movie, the vintage location a Brock House Restaurant and the scheduling of the events, it was quite a well run event. If I was a bit more Batman geeky I would have understood it more, but from a non Batman geeky perspective. That said, using a bit of with a bit of imagination and a hint of nerd, I HIGHLY recommend checking out this event and other Geekender events in the future.&nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/KPXM85qhI0g" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/time-to-get-your-inner-geek-out.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-28137371049243999332018-01-19T18:26:00.001-08:002018-01-19T18:26:39.221-08:00Average Family Owned Pho Place (Pho d'lite Solo District / Brentwood) <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Pho D'lite in Brentwood is a pretty cozy place for Pho. It was around 8:30 at night when my&nbsp;+1 and I decided to come as we were travelling by the Solo District. When we walked in, we were greeted by a waiter (or I think he's a waiter) and then seated. You can tell that this is a family owned restaurant because all of the roles between the server, cook and cashier seem to be blurred. What I found was a bit awkward was there were a group of ladies (I think they were probably the owners of this place) were sitting in the back table where they seem to be gossiping about something.<br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iJxSa4SdyA0/WmKooBR2MgI/AAAAAAAAExs/DZfYpf9ONLgL-Tv2tbLE4Sqb0flO6mOFQCLcBGAs/s1600/26943697_10155100676131135_237823022_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="497" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iJxSa4SdyA0/WmKooBR2MgI/AAAAAAAAExs/DZfYpf9ONLgL-Tv2tbLE4Sqb0flO6mOFQCLcBGAs/s320/26943697_10155100676131135_237823022_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;After looking at the menu, the prices seemed relatively fair (it's around $12-$15 on average for a bowl of noodles or curry). Browsing through the menu, I decided to get the chicken curry noodles. It did not take too long for the dish to come out. The noodles were put on a separate plate from the curry itself. I found the noodles to look a bit zombie-fied (it was so white that I couldn't help but wonder if the flour that was used to make this was bleached).<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;I started by just dumping all of the noodles into the curry. As the noodles entered the bowl of curry, the bowl started to fill up. The curry itself felt a bit watery, however I recon that in Thailand and Vietnam, their curry is based using coconut milk so it's a bit more watery. The spices in there were just spicy enough for my liking and the noodles gave the curry a good compliment. That said, I find the food itself is average, I wouldn't say that there is anything extra special other than the portions being slightly on the bigger size. Overall, I would come here again, but I probably won't go out of my way to come back.&nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/GEjl1EyrwLc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/average-family-owned-pho-place-pho.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-35043238210064192162018-01-15T16:55:00.002-08:002018-01-15T16:57:00.719-08:00Food for thought - "We have everything from A to Z" (Netflix VS Amazon)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I have to admit, when I found out that Amazon started to get into cloud computing, I held my breath. Amazon's business model isn't really to sell books, it's real business motive (in my opinion) is to sell EVERYTHING. That is why the logo of Amazon (if you take a look at the arrow points from A to Z of the words Amazon and not any other letters). It's a symbolism representing "we have everything from A to Z". By them entering cloud computing, they were further solidifying their goal of selling EVERYTHING. This has been true so far and now you can virtually get everything and anything off Amazon (maybe except live animals and sketchy things).<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTxRwXS1bmA/Wl1NVz5ONvI/AAAAAAAAExc/_U3iiA6M9vw4ZuxrHK-lHLlb5xx1vsprQCLcBGAs/s1600/1597px-Amazon.com-Logo.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="1597" height="64" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTxRwXS1bmA/Wl1NVz5ONvI/AAAAAAAAExc/_U3iiA6M9vw4ZuxrHK-lHLlb5xx1vsprQCLcBGAs/s320/1597px-Amazon.com-Logo.svg.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is from Amazon themselves, do you see what I mean? The "We sell everything from A to Z". Note: I don't own this logo and used under Creative Commons</td></tr></tbody></table><span id="goog_2003594856"></span><span id="goog_2003594857"></span><br /><div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Right now through AWS (Amazon Web Services) many websites are now hosted by Amazon through servers across the globe. For those unfamiliar with the concept, just imagine AWS like a virtual computer that acts as a way for people to store information (in particular websites, databases and etc...). I recalled a time in 2017 that AWS had a service outage and then all of a sudden, many websites also suddenly stopped working. I remember I was registering for a race using www.raceroster.com when this happened and Race Roster sent an email saying that they were hosted on AWS and that is why their website stopped working.&nbsp;</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1kL6zC-ksQ/Wl1MpaA7DHI/AAAAAAAAExU/PRdjKaRiDDc5Zw7AYpvEnwz6AU-XBpMiQCLcBGAs/s1600/26938242_10155090574441135_1344901198_o.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y1kL6zC-ksQ/Wl1MpaA7DHI/AAAAAAAAExU/PRdjKaRiDDc5Zw7AYpvEnwz6AU-XBpMiQCLcBGAs/s320/26938242_10155090574441135_1344901198_o.png" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazon Prime Video on Android</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">A great example of why I think Amazon has a lot of growth potential and that others should be worried is the comparison between Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Netflix is pretty much a cloud based subscription based online video streaming service. Amazon Prime Video is the same, and both use the similar technology - where the video is hosted on their servers and customers sign up through a subscription to watch videos. When comparing the two side by side, there are major similarities and major differences. Beginning with the similarities, both services allow you to use multiple devices and download movies to your own devices. They both offer exclusive films (don't quote me on this but I find that if one film exists on Netflix, it won't exist on Amazon Prime Video).</div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ihrw855NePE/Wl1MdFEylqI/AAAAAAAAExQ/xqTyz8KDq6Y-D3I9mf2NGtCbENEkpvUFACLcBGAs/s1600/26909322_10155090567571135_479907007_o.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ihrw855NePE/Wl1MdFEylqI/AAAAAAAAExQ/xqTyz8KDq6Y-D3I9mf2NGtCbENEkpvUFACLcBGAs/s320/26909322_10155090567571135_479907007_o.png" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Netflix interface on Android</td></tr></tbody></table>However, difference wise, Amazon Prime Video offers their service at no additional cost if you are a Amazon Prime member. Personally, that is super sexy sounding to me as a consumer because for a year of Amazon Prime, it is much cheaper than Netflix and you also get more perks (like free photo/video storage via Amazon Prime Drive) and Amazon Music. So if we are strictly talking about price and what you get out of the price, Amazon Prime wins. Think about this: if you as a consumer is getting all of the benefits of Netflix at no additional cost, why wouldn't you want to switch over to Amazon Prime Video and save money?<br /><br />That said, Netflix, although more expensive does have WAYYY more content that Amazon Prime Video. I find that Netflix originals such as Stranger Things, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and Orange is the New Black are soooo good. Amazon also has originals but I find that they aren't as good as what Netflix has - for now. I can see that Amazon is gaining a bigger market share in online streaming but it might be a while until Amazon can establish the "supply chain" and distribution networks to be able to compete with Netflix (who have established their channels of how they get their info) .<br /><br />In summary, at the current stage, comparing Amazon Prime and Netflix is like comparing apples and oranges because of the difference in content that they have. However, at the rate of growth of Amazon, I won't be surprised that down the road, Amazon Prime Video will soon be-able to have more content to rival Netflix. The more significant thing is that this is just an example of how Amazon is beginning to "take over the world". This is just a brief overview and example, but there are also many other examples - I will explore them in another blog post.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/8I9nh5yrhic" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/comparison-between-netflix-and-amazon.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-62403725801815552132018-01-14T12:45:00.000-08:002018-01-14T12:45:44.468-08:00Myst Asian Fusion (Review) - Is the hype worth it? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This is probably one of the busiest Taiwanese food places I've ever seen. Driving by, it always seems so busy and packed. My friends and I decided to give them a try one afternoon when it didn't look as busy. I was surprised how difficult it was to find parking. The parking lot is very small and hard to navigate. So we had to hop out of the car as one of my friends parked the car.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;When we arrived, it was not too busy so we were seated immediately. Once seated, we were brought hot tea and the menu. The menu itself had a surprising amount of things on it and the prices were fair. A wide variety of Asian and Taiwanese cuisine can be found on the menu. Things from appetizers like onion cakes all the way to noodles and rice were all here.<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DKYobBsBX64/Wlu_MNX5_GI/AAAAAAAAEw0/hVGX1dgVcegWisc5B3pr1pxV_CtIG9b0QCLcBGAs/s1600/26937550_10155087804391135_1259064347_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DKYobBsBX64/Wlu_MNX5_GI/AAAAAAAAEw0/hVGX1dgVcegWisc5B3pr1pxV_CtIG9b0QCLcBGAs/s320/26937550_10155087804391135_1259064347_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;However, when it comes to service, they tend to be a bit slow. I am not sure if it's because they are busy or understaffed, but it took a while before we were noticed. By the time the waitress came to take our orders, everyone already had their phones out and briefly forgot what we wanted to order. After a quick peek at the menu, we each decided to order their minced pork combo.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; Soon after we ordered, the food was ready. I was very surprised at how fast the food came. It came in a matter of seconds which made me wonder if they have all the food cooked up already and they just heat it up. In terms of portion, it was good. There was a lot of meat to the minced meat set (what do you expect, the name of the combo implies it's going to be alot of meat). The main bowl had 2 full braised eggs, some sausage and also minced meat on it. The two side dishes were very interesting though, the fried gluten was very sweet and the vegetables didn't taste fresh (I think it was microwaved). Otherwise, I liked the combo and thought it was pretty decent for the price.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;When we were finished with our meal, we were back to the waiting game. My friend tried to wave down the waitress a few times until she finally saw us and gave us our bill. To say the least, it could be that they are understaffed or that their staff is overworked so service is slower (or maybe they are tired). Overall, the food is fair and price is fair so the hype and long line ups outside for a fair place is surprisingly long. I do like how many options they have and the pricing, however I am not sure if I like to wait in line for that long.&nbsp;</span></div><br /><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/o6kJvOGeC7E" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/myst-asian-fusion-review-is-hype-worth.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-21074953770206548812018-01-13T20:56:00.001-08:002018-01-13T21:06:19.896-08:00SEARS Closing - reflections and how it shaped Metrotown today<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ZYgs5ePbw8/WlreEcWo3kI/AAAAAAAAEwI/-nt1ulml8m8eRk2gUBM-Hyf9NOyvZjvlQCLcBGAs/s1600/26854141_10155086385071135_53146446_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="110" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ZYgs5ePbw8/WlreEcWo3kI/AAAAAAAAEwI/-nt1ulml8m8eRk2gUBM-Hyf9NOyvZjvlQCLcBGAs/s200/26854141_10155086385071135_53146446_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun Setting on Sears</td></tr></tbody></table>As I was walking out of the mall and on my way home, the rainy skies cleared up and glowed with a hint of purple as the sun began to set. Looking up, I saw a huge "STORE CLOSING" sign hanging beside the infamous SEARS logo and the symbolism of the sun setting on SEARS. Although it may not seem significant to the average person, to me, the closing of SEARS (or the sun setting on SEARS) have some deep meanings.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwq6LLQ9fpc/Wlrh-dvrB9I/AAAAAAAAEwk/PfFFCD20K5onrQMlZ_9SoGPWicOTaTTRQCLcBGAs/s1600/26829768_10155086385306135_372766776_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwq6LLQ9fpc/Wlrh-dvrB9I/AAAAAAAAEwk/PfFFCD20K5onrQMlZ_9SoGPWicOTaTTRQCLcBGAs/s200/26829768_10155086385306135_372766776_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd last day of Sears.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;For starters, my blog is all about food, travelling and experiences (hence Vantraveller). However, in many places I travel to, retail and local stores are often associated with the local culture. This SEARS in particular is significant because it was here even before Metrotown was built.&nbsp; SEARS helped shape what is now Metrotown. SEARS has been around even before I was even born. Metrotown used to be an area that people would travel through if they were commuting from Downtown to New Westminster or the surburbs. This was initially what drove the market here so SEARS and other places like Kelly-Douglas were built. This was in the 50's and at the time, this area known as Metrotown today was only populated by no more than a few thousand people. This was also the golden era of department stores and SEARS was one of the first to be in this area. It wasn't until the 80's that the current shopping mall of Metrotown was built and the actual department store got incorporated into the mall. However, it can be argued that SEARS was what helped shape modern day Metrotown only to be driven out by both a failing business and a demand for real estate. The irony being that this SEARS was one of the places that drove the demand here to begin with. More information can be found here:&nbsp;<a href="http://davidpereira.ca/projects/burnabys-town-centres/metrotown/">history of Metrotown</a>.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AXswV8eFFB0/Wlrg_Hw2PKI/AAAAAAAAEwU/Pxne-Ld1a-syWjjIYB-7n4wHeBG_vdLAACLcBGAs/s1600/26906430_10155086385146135_2142830656_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AXswV8eFFB0/Wlrg_Hw2PKI/AAAAAAAAEwU/Pxne-Ld1a-syWjjIYB-7n4wHeBG_vdLAACLcBGAs/s200/26906430_10155086385146135_2142830656_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything for 90% off</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp;Because of how long SEARS have been here, it has also helped shape this community. Personally, It was a place that my family visited to buy our couch (that we still use today) 17 years ago. It was a place that I would go and check out on boxing day or when they had clearances because sometimes the deals here were actually good. There used to be a diner in this location (now the Concord Pacific Show room). There also used to be a barber, optometrist and tailor here. Over the years, all of these businesses closed and moved as the core department store business stayed.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;After reflecting, I decided to enter SEARS for one last peek before they closed for good. Upon walking in, everything was already taken apart. It seemed like everything that was not attached to the building was for sale. From fixtures to office equipment (like binders, really old office supplies and more) to mannequins and more were all on sale. There were people everywhere trying to salvage what they can for a cheap bargain (it sort of reminds me of how Ray salvaged parts on Jakku... except the SEARS edition).&nbsp; Personally, I would not buy any of the things because most of it is not useful to me.&nbsp; However, walking around the place, you can last ditch efforts made by SEARS to restart sales.&nbsp; <br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EHGBpIwUyzQ/WlrhTi5KvkI/AAAAAAAAEwY/ZY-14JBurYELdT8RTnc0QMI3LhMKFdojACLcBGAs/s1600/26905694_10155086385161135_1349888926_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EHGBpIwUyzQ/WlrhTi5KvkI/AAAAAAAAEwY/ZY-14JBurYELdT8RTnc0QMI3LhMKFdojACLcBGAs/s200/26905694_10155086385161135_1349888926_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sears branded pens</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; This is the interesting part. SEARS, before going out of business seemed to have tried to go the Winner's direction. You can see from some of the products being liquidated that they were all SEARS banded things. From Kenmore vacuum cleaners (they store branded it "SEARS" ) to stationary (also store branded "SEARS") to face masks (YES... face masks that was SEARS branded), you can tell that they were trying to reduce the costs by using their own brands and selling lower end products in attempt to bring customers back to the store. Personally, I thought this would have been a good move if they did this much earlier on in the game when people like Amazon were just started. Doing it so late in the game (it's practically a rebranding) seemed to be unwise as something such as re-branding usually take a while for the consumers to click in and finally buy it.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62B3lyxkcrU/WlrhtArQ5sI/AAAAAAAAEwg/e8Ae4tWF0VoszfYCGE7a5xUohWu3OkCJQCLcBGAs/s1600/26853529_10155086385186135_232739867_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62B3lyxkcrU/WlrhtArQ5sI/AAAAAAAAEwg/e8Ae4tWF0VoszfYCGE7a5xUohWu3OkCJQCLcBGAs/s320/26853529_10155086385186135_232739867_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mannequins anyone?</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; &nbsp; Further more, there are other elements at play such as poor management (they switched 7 CEO's in a short time period before they closed down), rise of competition such as Amazon (or e-commerce in general- they had an online store too, but I don't think marketing was executed on it too well) and a dwindling base of loyal shoppers (I find the SEARS customer base tend to be older in demographic) and also the high cost of having brick and mortar stores. There are probably more problems but overall, you can say that it was a multi-faced problem that caused the overall store to close down. That said, during its golden days, SEARS pioneered many things such as the print catalog (this did wonders and may companies such as IKEA still uses this and does it well).<br />So what now? Since the SEARS lot is not actually part of Metrotown, there are talks about building more condos here and changing Metrotown into a Yaletown style location (<a href="http://www.burnabynow.com/news/plans-revealed-for-metrotown-sears-site-1.23103319">More info here</a>). However the biggest take-away from it all (or take-aways) is witnessing the change of the skyline of a city; where this SEARS location helped shape the local community to be booted out by it. Furthermore, it is also the witnessing of how the retail climate is changing and how difficult it is to run a brick and mortar store and perhaps the need to change with time or get booted out. What do you think? Is change good?&nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/pjywFxpvDqg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/sears-closing-reflections-and-how-it.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-54581008065549817242018-01-12T20:04:00.001-08:002018-01-12T20:05:49.922-08:00Looking for some printing? VISTAPRINT Review <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IwKSLNLUPA8/WlmFfZCZxaI/AAAAAAAAEv4/UP9WbWRvof0JsiOsVOi909Lk7643wIDhQCLcBGAs/s1600/26853782_10155084138256135_5269826_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IwKSLNLUPA8/WlmFfZCZxaI/AAAAAAAAEv4/UP9WbWRvof0JsiOsVOi909Lk7643wIDhQCLcBGAs/s320/26853782_10155084138256135_5269826_o.jpg" width="180" /></a>Taking a break from your regular programming of food and adventures, I thought I would do a review on <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint</a> (I don't usually do product reviews but until I figure out where to put this... maybe my own blog on how I manage my NPO?) <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint</a> is sort of like the Walmart of printing in my opinion. They have SO MANY products that are offered. I manage a nonprofit and because of our constrained budgets, we always try to find more economical printing options. In general, I like <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint </a>for their relatively cheap price, ease of use and customer service. However, quality for some products can be questionable.<br /><div><br /></div><div><b><a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Business Cards</a></b></div><div>Business Cards are among the best products from <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint</a> in my opinion, for $9.99 (and also some shipping, but it varies) you get a decent amount of business cards (500 to be exact). They advertise the regular price higher but you can usually find a promocode and you can get the product for cheaper. The quality of them is good and quite professional. I would say when it comes to business cards, <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint </a>is usually my go-to place.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Banners</b></div><div>This is a bit interesting out of all of the products they have to offer. Their banners are pretty high in quality and they come in both indoor and outdoor use options. I have to say that&nbsp; I ordered a few banners from them and all of them have a barcode printed at the front. When I first received the banners, I was a bit thrown off as to why the barcode is printed at the FRONT. I sent them an email and they tried to correct it by sending me another one. However, there is still a barcode there. It was then when I reached out to them that they said it's the way their systems are automated so they ended up giving me a refund. That said, after my ordeal with them, they changed their preview platform and now they give a preview of banners with the barcode on. I would say if you don't mind the barcode then the quality of the banners are relatively good.<br /><br />I know some people in the printing business and they tell me they actually get their printing done by <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint</a> (mind you, <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint</a> sells it to them at a business to business price). <a href="http://reward.vistaprint.com/go.axd?ref=TOX8II">Vistaprint </a>will sell to consumers the price vendors will charge so that they don't compete with business (I'm assuming) so that's an interesting point.<br /><br /><b>Tips:</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>There are usually promocodes drifting online, never pay regular price for something because there is always a sale.</li><li>Check out <a href="https://www.ebates.ca/referrer?referrerid=IWRwkDXQMA8%3D">ebates</a>&nbsp;to get a rebate on your order by <a href="https://www.ebates.ca/referrer?referrerid=IWRwkDXQMA8%3D">clicking here</a>&nbsp;. Ebates is a good tool to use if you do alot of online shopping and want a rebate.</li><li>Be aware that they have preview tools but what shows up (in-terms of colouring) might be different. I try to exaggerate the difference between colours and if they are too close in similarity, they don't usually show up too well.&nbsp;</li></ul><br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/nTudgL6p2XA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/looking-for-some-printing-vistaprint.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-1173957302344247422018-01-10T15:53:00.000-08:002018-01-10T15:55:26.284-08:00A mechanic shop converted cafe - Cafe La foret <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jmXPIOU7w_w/WlZ3-nQ3XSI/AAAAAAAAEvg/7BYfJ9GnJ2YEdzxC0xSB9MMU4tsu0r7awCLcBGAs/s1600/26772622_10155078974826135_434270313_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jmXPIOU7w_w/WlZ3-nQ3XSI/AAAAAAAAEvg/7BYfJ9GnJ2YEdzxC0xSB9MMU4tsu0r7awCLcBGAs/s320/26772622_10155078974826135_434270313_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super spacious interior</td></tr></tbody></table>I grew up around this area and way back in the day, this used to be a car mechanic shop. It has recently been converted to a coffee shop/ cafe and HOLY SMOKES did it breathe a new life into this place. This has got to be one of the most spacious coffee shops I've ever been to. From the outside, you can't really tell that this is a cafe with the exception of the logo that says "La Foret" which according to my French friends mean "the Forest".<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Walking inside, you will see how spacious this place really is, there are tons of seats and a really high ceiling (maybe this is why they call it "the Forest"... hinting that you need to be as tall as a tree to hit the ceiling...). The decor such the Chewbaca and Han Solo paintings on the side really itches the nerd inside of me. There is ample natural lighting such as ceiling high windows, and roof top windows which I really liked. I also like the plants they have in the island at the middle, and how tidy it is.<br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bEC42XpnnhA/WlZ3_KDvlzI/AAAAAAAAEvk/XU75GUb0KF8EdzL2XnRZnrBC_0bZgq4VACLcBGAs/s1600/26782346_10155078974671135_1592238707_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bEC42XpnnhA/WlZ3_KDvlzI/AAAAAAAAEvk/XU75GUb0KF8EdzL2XnRZnrBC_0bZgq4VACLcBGAs/s200/26782346_10155078974671135_1592238707_o.jpg" width="200" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;Food wise, this place have an Asian twist on the food. They serve things like squid ink bread, coffee buns and other types of Asian style bread. I did notice the price here for food is a bit on the higher end (for comparison, a piece of croissant is $2.50 but the portion is small and you can get a similar one for slightly cheaper else where). I do have to admit, their baked goods are presented really well and it makes you want to buy it based on how well they present it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6cvrlDKyTPg/WlZ4BUa-VAI/AAAAAAAAEvo/OP1HVYv5X-s84CJP1CWdVfVxvY6nkdQHACLcBGAs/s1600/26854038_10155078974856135_1386810640_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6cvrlDKyTPg/WlZ4BUa-VAI/AAAAAAAAEvo/OP1HVYv5X-s84CJP1CWdVfVxvY6nkdQHACLcBGAs/s200/26854038_10155078974856135_1386810640_o.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mB4dJdtxTwM/WlZ3-ISLtcI/AAAAAAAAEvc/eWXGzjEei5IuTB9gr41MBW1DOoTJkNm9gCLcBGAs/s1600/26853553_10155078974661135_520154948_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mB4dJdtxTwM/WlZ3-ISLtcI/AAAAAAAAEvc/eWXGzjEei5IuTB9gr41MBW1DOoTJkNm9gCLcBGAs/s200/26853553_10155078974661135_520154948_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="112" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;Besides baked goods, they also serve an assortment of soups, sandwiches and crepes. All of the prices are fair, but because of the portion size, I would say things are slighter on the higher end. That said, that markup probably comes in the form of a trade-off for a good venue. When I was here, all I had was a cup of coffee. It's around 2 dollars for a cup of coffee, which is average priced. However, the portion is smaller compared to other places that offer the coffee that's priced the same.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; Overall, this place is the best for the venue. It's spacious and great to meet with your friends. I have to note that it gets pretty busy here. There are signs on the wall that says they have a 2 hour time limit on the weekend (honestly, I don't know how they are going to enforce that). The decor is cool and I would definitely come back again.<br /><br /><br /><br />&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/FGc1hk9evFA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/a-mechanic-shop-converted-cafe-cafe-la.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-13946507486892161832018-01-09T16:00:00.000-08:002018-01-09T16:01:07.673-08:00BIG PORTIONS of Fried Rice and Noodles and slightly awkward place to celebrate your birthday - The One Restaurant (Burnaby)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uuMTiUhDB5Y/WlVRkFdW9pI/AAAAAAAAEvI/Al8Bm2PCll0rd150dBfMJ_kmCo6Djj0PgCLcBGAs/s1600/26829003_10155077178456135_920271173_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uuMTiUhDB5Y/WlVRkFdW9pI/AAAAAAAAEvI/Al8Bm2PCll0rd150dBfMJ_kmCo6Djj0PgCLcBGAs/s200/26829003_10155077178456135_920271173_o.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qWIuABcX6-Q/WlVRYcl_zsI/AAAAAAAAEvA/g-Xi1ioLBFUnBCCwxV-PulG4wPnFiRPRQCLcBGAs/s1600/26781763_10155077178421135_1254749978_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qWIuABcX6-Q/WlVRYcl_zsI/AAAAAAAAEvA/g-Xi1ioLBFUnBCCwxV-PulG4wPnFiRPRQCLcBGAs/s200/26781763_10155077178421135_1254749978_o.jpg" width="112" /></a>The One restaurant is a pretty interesting place to get your fix of Asian (mostly Taiwanese food). The portions are big relative to price and if you were celebrating a birthday, they have a very interesting way of celebrating it for you...<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;When we were there, someone was celebrating their birthday. The interesting thing to note is that the owners of The One also owns the karaoke place next door. So when you walk into the restaurant, the first thing you will see is the bubble tea bar and big screens on top of the bar.&nbsp; On the screen, there is a subtitled pop song playing (I assume <br />it's using the same system as the karaoke place next door) and that song is played throughout the restaurant.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; After we sat down and before we ordered our food, a waitress walked by our table with a big cake towards a group of girls that was sitting at a table in front of us. That pop song playing on that karaoke screen all of a sudden changed to the karaoke version of the birthday song. However, it was blasted all over the restaurant and replayed itself at least 8 times. It was funny to note that when the birthday girl was done cutting the cake, the song way still playing happy birthday. The expression on her face was very interesting to say the least that the whole restaurant knows it's her special day.<br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rOceNeLUnN4/WlVR9SktVcI/AAAAAAAAEvM/a6v622a-gPQcFqM-6YAUDt2LYk1ddqKZwCLcBGAs/s1600/26781759_10155077178316135_1541231810_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rOceNeLUnN4/WlVR9SktVcI/AAAAAAAAEvM/a6v622a-gPQcFqM-6YAUDt2LYk1ddqKZwCLcBGAs/s200/26781759_10155077178316135_1541231810_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gczDsykjVQE/WlVRCrj3fPI/AAAAAAAAEu8/FLJVbPiA-ag1IeCtP3oLMlDqsdbDWeZZACLcBGAs/s1600/26772648_10155077178331135_436178332_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gczDsykjVQE/WlVRCrj3fPI/AAAAAAAAEu8/FLJVbPiA-ag1IeCtP3oLMlDqsdbDWeZZACLcBGAs/s200/26772648_10155077178331135_436178332_o.jpg" width="200" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp; Funny things aside, when it came to the food, I ordered a bowl of satay chicken noodles and an onion pancake. We had to order two things because the rule is that you have to order one item per person. For around $12, the bowl of noodles was pretty big. I was watching the fried rice that the pe<br />ople beside us were eating and it was pretty big too. I would say the portions is more than enough for one person. The taste is average, but portions were good.&nbsp; The green onion cake was also pretty good.<br />&nbsp; Overall, I wouldn't say that this place is upper scale as it seems to cater to people who are more economically conscious. However, because of that I would definitely come to this place again.&nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/CHfSlxrudFg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/big-portions-of-fried-rice-and-noodles.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-35797284624526975362018-01-08T16:14:00.000-08:002018-01-08T16:14:41.171-08:00You better eat fast - A sushi restaurant that feels like a sauna (Sushi Garden High Gate)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ptE_2fOvK7o/WlQI8-20QyI/AAAAAAAAEuo/yonFs95hcpEYBqVcDbgmel-4piVAaWd4gCLcBGAs/s1600/26771842_10155074736641135_1203995234_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ptE_2fOvK7o/WlQI8-20QyI/AAAAAAAAEuo/yonFs95hcpEYBqVcDbgmel-4piVAaWd4gCLcBGAs/s320/26771842_10155074736641135_1203995234_o.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EK-_rmxdNZs/WlQI72wKzrI/AAAAAAAAEuk/RqKovzg7tLEtLAGntMeXU1yKVShRYxDmwCLcBGAs/s1600/26733270_10155074736796135_661805244_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EK-_rmxdNZs/WlQI72wKzrI/AAAAAAAAEuk/RqKovzg7tLEtLAGntMeXU1yKVShRYxDmwCLcBGAs/s320/26733270_10155074736796135_661805244_o.jpg" width="179" /></a>Sushi Garden has got to be one of the most popular sushi restaurants around and they have opened up many locations. When I got here, it was around 7:30 at night and the place was about 90% full.&nbsp; I usually come to Sushi Garden for take out because there is a deal (I believe 5% off if you pay with cash and order in advance). However, this time I decided to eat in. There wasn't a line up (like there usually is when I drive by), so I decided to come in with my&nbsp;+1. Our first impression was that the restaurant was warm and smoggy (the windows were all fogged up) and felt like a mini sauna. The restaurant was also pretty tightly packed, and there wasn't much free space to move around.<br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OFnOZzApR6g/WlQI7lX_jXI/AAAAAAAAEuc/qb9p1Wn8RRgtjEOPy25dFxlMINH01dpqgCLcBGAs/s1600/26695605_10155074737046135_388008613_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OFnOZzApR6g/WlQI7lX_jXI/AAAAAAAAEuc/qb9p1Wn8RRgtjEOPy25dFxlMINH01dpqgCLcBGAs/s200/26695605_10155074737046135_388008613_o.jpg" width="112" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;Once we sat down, the waiter brought us the menu. I've seen many menus in the past, but this menu was super worn out and it looked like someone just spent 10 minutes on Microsoft Word to copy and paste things and then it was printed. The lamination were all frayed and the colours of the menu was all faded. I'm not an art critic, but this is just an observation. Who knows, the vintage and minimalism style could be a thing. The other thing I noticed from the last time I was here was that the price for sushi have gone up. As a benchmark, their Alaska Roll (one of my favourite rolls from them) used to be $3.95 but now it's $4.50. However, given the current economy and inflation, costs going up is understandable. It's interesting to note that the utensils that they were using like cups seemed worn out. The one that my&nbsp;+1 had was chipped.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; I decided to order an Alaska Roll, 2 spicy tuna rolls and a wild salmon roll. I tend to avoid salmon because of PCB (farmed salmon tend to have higher concentrations of PCBs). Once we finished ordering, the food came pretty fast. I have to say, I still love their Alaska Rolls, that thin slice of Salmon on top of a roll that has avocados and then some miso paste really does it for me. The spicy tuna rolls was average, there is really nothing much to say about that. Overall I liked the rolls, and felt they were pretty decent.<br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JXzPLndlRl0/WlQI7-cUCVI/AAAAAAAAEug/80zQefr6PEABAWLZZ1oTXGyyC4Fs3m0kACLcBGAs/s1600/26735391_10155074736076135_715002962_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JXzPLndlRl0/WlQI7-cUCVI/AAAAAAAAEug/80zQefr6PEABAWLZZ1oTXGyyC4Fs3m0kACLcBGAs/s320/26735391_10155074736076135_715002962_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;The interesting part was that I felt the waiters/ waitresses were watching us like hawks. The moment we are finished with a plate, they came right away to take the plate away. They did that for all of our plates and then when we finally finished the last plate, they came with the bill. It was very swift and I'm not going to lie, it made me feel a bit anxious and pressured to hurry up and leave. Definitely this is not a place to take a family (I live with old people who eat slow), I can imagine how pressured one will feel to eat as it seems like they want you out the door fast.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Overall, I like their sushi, but it is not a place I will go out of my way to go eat it as the eating environment is pretty uncomfortable.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/duDZBhWMeME" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/you-better-eat-fast-sushi-restaurant.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-63725001602738463172018-01-07T16:55:00.002-08:002018-01-07T17:15:15.830-08:00Scotiabank Vancouver Half-Marathon and 5km - Overview and why you should run it!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My blog is all about talking about quality experiences, be it food or events. There is a discount for this event at the bottom of this page! Besides food, in the month of January I will be blogging about races and events too. If you are looking for a half-marathon (21.1km) for the target period of June then this is the race to do! I've ran this race many times and I have also paced it for the 1:45 for a few years. I am not biased, but overall this is one of my most favourite races. A few reasons why I love this race:<br /><div><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/d1c9U9sJfd8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d1c9U9sJfd8?feature=player_embedded" style="clear: right; float: right;" width="320"></iframe><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>It is a HUGE fundraising event for many charities. In 2017, the event raised over $970,000 for 70+ charities.</li><li>It is very well organized by a team of people that is very passionate about the community and the running community. The professionalism they bring to the events they create is evident through how thorough it is organized and how every little detail is not missed out.</li><li>You get great swag! From a tech t-shirt to a medal to the virtual swag bag (in the past some swags that came with the virtual swag bag includes a subscription to Men's fitness).&nbsp;</li><li>It's a great value overall and it is very well organized.</li><li>It is net- downhill course - meaning that the course itself is designed to be downhill and fast. It's great for beginners (this was my first half-marathon actually).</li><li>Small details about this race: they are very environmentally responsible with one of the highest waste-diversion rates in the country.</li><li>The event has pacers to help you keep on track!</li></ul><div><br /></div><div><div><b>The course (half-marathon):</b></div><div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CY94ib0AFj0/Wk5b80eQbwI/AAAAAAAAEqs/kfkT6Mg2kDcWhGlciR4btaWEIJEP1zOyACLcBGAs/s1600/svhm-course-map-2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CY94ib0AFj0/Wk5b80eQbwI/AAAAAAAAEqs/kfkT6Mg2kDcWhGlciR4btaWEIJEP1zOyACLcBGAs/s320/svhm-course-map-2017.png" width="320" /></a>Out of the many races that happen in Vancouver, I would say this one is one of my favourites. The entire course is net downhill - (for those who are unfamiliar with the term, it means that you start at a higher elevation but finish at a lower elevation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Beginning at UBC, there is an immediate downhill right after the start. Once you reach West 16th, you will turn right on it and then turn left on Marine Drive. The course will still continue to lower in elevation until the turn around point. You will then follow Marine Drive for a while until you are in the Kitsilano area. This is my favourite part because it's super scenic. You get a view of the water and the mountains.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Once you are in Kitsilano, there is a small uphill up Jericho (this is probably one of the three small uphill sections). You will continue all the way on West 4th, and then make your way to Cornwall (this place is very scenic as well) and then cruise all the way to the finish line after you cross the Burrard Street Bridge. As you can see, there aren't many up hills and most of the course is downhill. It's great for speed.</div><div><br />There is also a 5km option for those who are not as keen to run that far, the 5km is a loop in Stanley Park and West-end. The 5km option is a good family event if you want to take your kids out to be active or can't run but want to participate (this is a course that you can comfortably walk in about an hour).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Discount Code</b>:&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can sign up at <a href="https://bit.ly/RFScotiahalf2018">https://Bit.ly/RFScotiahalf2018 </a>and use "RFORCE2018" for 10% off!</span></div><div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="eq8qd" data-offset-key="pno5-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Tips:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>HYDRATE!!! I would recommend stopping at every aid station (especially the ones at the very beginning). I lost track of how many people feel sick or light headed over the years because they think they don't need to hydrate. (Mind you, don't over hydrate either... that can cause hyponatremia which isn't good).</li><li>Do not underestimate the weather - It can be very hot out there. Remember to wear sunscreen and a hat. I would put the sunscreen from the eye level down (anywhere above the eye level will make the sunscreen run and sting your eyes after you start running and sweating).</li><li>Pack light - There is bag check at the event, but be reminded that it's run by volunteers and that it's a pain for them if they have to move heavy things.&nbsp;</li><li>DO NOT over do it when you are at the downhill portion (especially at the Marine Drive downhill). Since the biggest downhills are at the beginning of the race, many people love to run these hills super fast. Unless you have a strategy, burning out your thighs so early on is not a good idea.</li><li>DO TRAIN for the race, even though a half-marathon is not a marathon, it is still an endurance event. 21.1km is still very long.</li></ol><div><br /></div><div>If you are looking for information about training for a marathon / half-marathon, please visit my other post:&nbsp;<a href="https://vantraveller.blogspot.ca/2018/01/marathon-half-marathon-training-info-if.html">https://vantraveller.blogspot.ca/2018/01/marathon-half-marathon-training-info-if.html</a></div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/BXBGq4SHp3U" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/commit-to-half.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-52811605391116120782018-01-06T16:24:00.002-08:002018-01-06T16:49:57.344-08:00$2.49 Breakfast with free coffee (IKEA Breakfast)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">If you don't like fast food but want something of decent quality and cheap... IKEA is the place to go.&nbsp; The cafeteria is open 1/2 hour before the store opens (which is around 9:30AM).<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bCnuh8amYMA/WlFmRPlIhSI/AAAAAAAAEt0/7f1sqMn8q3kOcD3yVCLfZwwo6RCwt4T9gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26654742_10155070567901135_822265707_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bCnuh8amYMA/WlFmRPlIhSI/AAAAAAAAEt0/7f1sqMn8q3kOcD3yVCLfZwwo6RCwt4T9gCK4BGAYYCw/s320/26654742_10155070567901135_822265707_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>Just the traditional breakfast alone was worth the trip. For $2.49, the breakfast comes with scrambled eggs, 2 pieces of chicken sausages, a slice of bread (it is thick), a slice (or two) of tomato and hash browns. There really isn't anything special about the eggs, hashbrown or bread. I thought they tasted pretty average. The only thing that stood out for me was the chicken sausage. It tastes slightly dry (and it looks dry too). I can't help but wonder if the chicken was zombified before it was turned into sausages to look like that. All of that aside, the food itself is not sweet or greasy and the only thing fried is the hashbrowns. Their hashbrowns tasted more baked than fried too (though I am not sure how it is processed). In total for $2.49, this is a very good deal and it's relatively nutritious (in my opinion) so it is definitely worth the trip. To make things sweeter, if you go there in the morning before they open (the first 30 minutes before opening) the coffee is free too.</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; Beside the traditional breakfast, they also have things like crepes, assorted buns, yogurt parfait, salad, and more. I didn't really try the other things when I was there because the traditional breakfast was enough for me. However, these are things to look into if the bread, eggs, sausage and tomato is your style. The only interesting thing I noticed with IKEA is that the food tends to take a dull theme for the colours. I am not sure if this is because IKEA doesn't put food colouring into their food (or that the other places I go to does). This is only an observation.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zeWypKhgDf8/WlFnrD6uaoI/AAAAAAAAEuA/8mwXpz4H5785MreLH4ycevPN1Ncs5DcFgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26693141_10155070567906135_1394146363_o.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zeWypKhgDf8/WlFnrD6uaoI/AAAAAAAAEuA/8mwXpz4H5785MreLH4ycevPN1Ncs5DcFgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/26693141_10155070567906135_1394146363_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e43TKMVExM8/WlFnrgD7I_I/AAAAAAAAEuI/fOxDmKxoytAYaedpTBKS-MXUCMhK11PFgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26693261_10155070568066135_526439078_o.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e43TKMVExM8/WlFnrgD7I_I/AAAAAAAAEuI/fOxDmKxoytAYaedpTBKS-MXUCMhK11PFgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/26693261_10155070568066135_526439078_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp;</div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/MJculsTSmyo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/249-breakfast-with-free-coffee-ikea.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-78151408258805772012018-01-05T17:05:00.002-08:002018-01-07T17:16:01.359-08:00Vancouver's only marathon - the BMO Vancouver Marathon Overview and Experience and why you should run it!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAVgJWlFV6s/WlAf70SyQ8I/AAAAAAAAEtU/j3zqe3_lYJIle_9p4-Mi68biUrC2yoeHQCLcBGAs/s1600/26551581_10155068397221135_649597909_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="362" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAVgJWlFV6s/WlAf70SyQ8I/AAAAAAAAEtU/j3zqe3_lYJIle_9p4-Mi68biUrC2yoeHQCLcBGAs/s320/26551581_10155068397221135_649597909_n.png" width="320" /></a>BMO Vancouver Marathon is THE MARATHON to run if you are in Vancouver. We are talking about the 42.195km full marathon (there is also the half-marathon and 8km distances that the race offers, but I've only ever done the full marathon for this event). There are other small marathon distance races around in Vancouver, but nothing matches the amount of organization, effort in planning and the scale of the BMO Vancouver Marathon.&nbsp;Organized by the nonprofit society, Vancouver International Marathon Society, this event brings out the entire community (For those unfamiliar with sponsorships, BMO is the title sponsor of the event, but the event is actually run by a nonprofit organizing group). Points about this event that I love is:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eqmy9U4ht4c/WlAdyUOXSxI/AAAAAAAAEtA/pcMXogLg9-M0dr3HoMlDCuKfy8-y89pXwCLcBGAs/s1600/26695299_10155068380541135_120024684_o.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1444" data-original-width="1436" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eqmy9U4ht4c/WlAdyUOXSxI/AAAAAAAAEtA/pcMXogLg9-M0dr3HoMlDCuKfy8-y89pXwCLcBGAs/s320/26695299_10155068380541135_120024684_o.png" width="318" /></a><li>World class marathon expo at the Vancouver Convention Center - The marathon expo has always been one of my favourite things about this event.&nbsp;</li><li>World class organization - When I mentioned that the entire community is involved, I was not kidding. During the marathon, the city's police and ambulance forces are all connected to the marathon. Every care and detail is put into the race from safety measures to washrooms and more.</li><li>An add on to the point above.. there's washrooms on course (you have NO IDEA how important that is, try holding your business in for 3 (or in some cases 4+) hours and add on running.&nbsp;</li><li>It takes close to 4000 volunteers to make the marathon happen and it's largely volunteer driven.</li><li>It is rated by Forbes and CNN as one of the most scenic marathons in the world. The course is like 70% by the water and you run in a mix of residential, parkland, city and more.&nbsp;</li></ul><div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WD6J0lVhiZk/WlAWYbYZMZI/AAAAAAAAEsk/f0ylU8GYZ_YMN7v3zApAmw8K0s0E92B7ACLcBGAs/s1600/20170505_201525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WD6J0lVhiZk/WlAWYbYZMZI/AAAAAAAAEsk/f0ylU8GYZ_YMN7v3zApAmw8K0s0E92B7ACLcBGAs/s320/20170505_201525.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>The Expo</b><br />From the plaza outside, there is a stage where there are performers, activities and flags to welcome people from all over the world. There are usually activities outside as well on the plaza and photo opportunities.&nbsp; Inside the convention center, there are many exhibitions ranging from running products, nutrition products, other races and travel information. I absolutely love the expo as it's bustling with people, new products and all of that. It gives the running nerd inside of me a nerdgasm.<br /><br /><br /><b>The full marathon course</b><br />The marathon itself have changed over the course of the last 46 years. Originally it was just loops around the Stanley Park Seawall. But now, it goes through many neighborhoods of Vancouver. Often times, the neighborhoods of Vancouver all come out to support the marathon.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xOnI0BD9POA/Wk_Ag7LV8OI/AAAAAAAAEsA/UoVkeY9KB_QW223hYEwIVKfwxJfL9U9zgCLcBGAs/s1600/2018.Maps_.MARATHON.8.5x11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="927" data-original-width="1200" height="246" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xOnI0BD9POA/Wk_Ag7LV8OI/AAAAAAAAEsA/UoVkeY9KB_QW223hYEwIVKfwxJfL9U9zgCLcBGAs/s320/2018.Maps_.MARATHON.8.5x11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The marathon map from the BMO Vancouver Marathon Website</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WD6J0lVhiZk/WlAWYbYZMZI/AAAAAAAAEsk/f0ylU8GYZ_YMN7v3zApAmw8K0s0E92B7ACLcBGAs/s1600/20170505_201525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>Starting at the Queen Elizabeth Park, there is a slight up hill for the first kilometers and then it is all downhill on Cambie Street (it's a gradual downhill) until 49th Avenue. Cambie Street is big and quite beautiful to run with buildings on the sides. Here you will continue further downhill on 49th Avenue. 49th Avenue is primarily residential areas, and the houses are big. The trees on both sides create a tunnel like feeling to the course.<br /><br />You will continue on the course until you hit Camosun. This is where the challenge begins. This hill is not exactly that easy to get up to so over the course of a few years, the race has implemented a "hill challenge" where timing mats are placed at the bottom and top of the hill. Runners who are non-elites who races up to the top with the fastest time gets a prize (usually a cheque) - personally, I would take this part easy as I try to go slower at the beginning to reserve my energy reserves.<br /><br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ4_BkNnHVM/WlAfizANwwI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/Wln4xEBhwwIrMac8e37F9-BPPD07dFcHgCLcBGAs/s1600/26655161_10155068392506135_1209264678_o.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1291" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ4_BkNnHVM/WlAfizANwwI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/Wln4xEBhwwIrMac8e37F9-BPPD07dFcHgCLcBGAs/s320/26655161_10155068392506135_1209264678_o.png" width="257" /></a>After the top of the hill you will continue on to West 16th Avenue where there is still a small hill. The left side is Pacific Spirit Park while the right is residential areas. The gel station is up ahead (I highly recommend grabbing some gels here and eating it too so that your energy levels can be replenished). You will continue on to West 16th Avenue until you get to Marine Drive at UBC (where the down hill begins).<br /><br />Marine Drive is relatively flat at UBC. When you get to the intersection of West 4th and Marine drive is when the massive downhill begins. The views here are gorgeous as you can see the sea and mountains. You will continue to Spanish Banks and all the way to Jericho Beach (slight uphill here) and then on to West 4th Avenue. The course continues on West 4th Avenue until you hit Alma, and then you will continue along 1st Avenue until you are on Cornwall. For many, this is where the real challenge begins. It is roughly 28km into the race and many runners (including me a few times) hit the wall here.<br /><br />The last hill of the race is here and that is going over the Burrard Street Bridge. There will be lots of people cheering before, during and after the bridge. Once you are past the bridge, you will continue on Pacific Avenue until Stanley Park. Once at Stanley Park, you will follow the seawall all the way around until the finish line in Downtown Vancouver.<br /><br /></div><br /><b><br /></b><b>TIPS:</b><br /><ul><li>If you are planning to run the full marathon, do not underestimate it. It does take training and is not something you can just do without knowing what it takes. I've seen people who do not train for the marathon and regretted it during the race (many don't even finish), they underestimate how long 42.195km really is. A good rule of thumb is to have completed a half marathon and a 3-6 month training program before attempting the marathon. Here is a nut-shell edition of how I trained for the marathon:&nbsp;<a href="http://vantraveller.blogspot.ca/2018/01/marathon-half-marathon-training-info-if.html">http://vantraveller.blogspot.ca/2018/01/marathon-half-marathon-training-info-if.html</a></li><li>Sign-up early! The rates increase closer to the event date. It's easier to plan training and travels (if need be) earlier. Students get a discount of 30%!! ****NOTE: you have to be 19 to run in the marathon.&nbsp;<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hxghe_i5CdU/WlAbxVDa-sI/AAAAAAAAEs0/TA-5J17jJDMiJPqeO9P4XSoihSsNbwPPwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_6759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="293" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hxghe_i5CdU/WlAbxVDa-sI/AAAAAAAAEs0/TA-5J17jJDMiJPqeO9P4XSoihSsNbwPPwCLcBGAs/s320/DSC_6759.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Marathon provides shuttle buses for those not in Vancouver</td></tr></tbody></table></li><ul></ul><li>If you want to be a part of the excitement, but not ready to run a full marathon by yourself yet... try the relay! Grab a team of 4 and take turns to run it. Everyone on the team gets a medal and the experience (without the 42.195km of pain (though it's one of those hate love things)).</li><li>Nutrition: The race do provide aid stations and gel stations. That said, everyone has a different taste bud and needs. As with any marathon, it's best to check what supplements are provided before running. I would recommend bringing a hydration pack and your own gels anyway. I've ran this race a few times and sometimes I get experimental (like trying a new gel on the course that I've never taken before during training). Let me tell you... that causes a lot of stomach problems and sometimes your body doesn't know how to handle the new gels.&nbsp;</li><li>Do be mindful of hydration. Dehydration (and sometimes over hydration - a condition called hyponatrema) is common. So please be mindful of your hydration levels. Stopping at a water station to drink water takes a few seconds.. getting a cramp from dehydration.. that could take you out of the event and possibly send you to the hospital.<br /><div style="text-align: right;"></div></li><li>Take public transit to the startline. Translink and the marathon work together, so there are shuttles. Information can be found on the marathon website and you usually have to indicate if you are using this service during sign up.</li><li>Pace Bunnies : The race offers pace bunnies (not real bunnies silly, but people who will run holding a stick with a time written on it) to keep you at a constant pace throughout your race. Every bunny have their own strategies but for speeds slower that 3:30 for the marathon, many will do 10-1's (meaning they will run for 10 minutes and walk 1 minute). You don't have to stay with a pace bunny, but they do help you gauge an estimate of what your finish time will be.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></li></ul><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ4_BkNnHVM/WlAfizANwwI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/Wln4xEBhwwIrMac8e37F9-BPPD07dFcHgCLcBGAs/s1600/26655161_10155068392506135_1209264678_o.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>There are all my thoughts for now, I will probably post a Part 2 edition later on. Feel free to let me know what you think so far and if I missed anything. Cheers and happy training &lt;3</div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/FWP71sBoJKo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/bmo-vancouver-marathon-overview.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-85394650096608770422018-01-04T11:48:00.000-08:002018-01-04T11:52:45.509-08:00What I learned about marathon / half marathon running (after running 80 races)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">When I started running, I was pretty oblivious to many things. When I started, I thought... "all you need is to put on a pair of shoes and run" but I was wrong. I encountered numerous injuries that taught me to become more humble about my body and how to train it. I am not a certified trainer or anything in anyway - yet I made a goal to run 100 races before I turn 25 to raise awareness for health and liver disease. In the next little while, I am going to be sharing information about running in events, tips and discounts. However, I am going to begin my roulette of event information with how I trained for the marathon / half - marathon.<br /><br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jdpTmL5bhuY/Wk6GBXQZX1I/AAAAAAAAErI/QFAcqudHC3sQLjHRXMs8VVfV8_eCXhSxgCLcBGAs/s1600/26692921_10155065525211135_959073773_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jdpTmL5bhuY/Wk6GBXQZX1I/AAAAAAAAErI/QFAcqudHC3sQLjHRXMs8VVfV8_eCXhSxgCLcBGAs/s320/26692921_10155065525211135_959073773_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a>*Disclaimer - Since this is health related, note that I am not an expert and you should get advice from an expert if that is what you seek. This is information on how I trained for the marathon.<br /><br /><div><b>HOW TO TRAIN FOR IT:</b></div><div>As with starting any exercise regimen, <b>please consult your doctor before proceeding. </b>There are inherent risks to marathon and distance running.&nbsp; The two big things about running is (in my opinion): Injury Prevention and safety). This section is about training for a marathon and half-marathon (it's the nutshell edition, depending on time, I might publish a video about each section or a more detailed blog post about it) as each section do require a bit of discussion on each topic. However, here is a brief nutshell of some of the topics related to running.<br /><br /><b>A) Books to read:&nbsp;</b><br />If you are tight on a budget (I was very tight when I started), the most I had was the library... I found some very good books:&nbsp;</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>&nbsp;<a href="http://amzn.to/2C0WzoQ">Hal Higdon's Ultimate Marathon Training Guide</a>&nbsp;- This book is a classic for marathon training. It includes training plans as well as diet plans. It does not go in-depth on physiology, but it does cover the basics.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="http://amzn.to/2C0RuMW">Dr. Jordan Metzl's Running Strong</a> - I love this book because it's super colourful and does a brief overview of anatomy and physiology. The core focus of this book is really to help you run injury free. There's a fair bit and emphasis on strength training in this book, but I find that this is very good.</li><li><a href="http://amzn.to/2lVuAfg">The Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training</a> - This book is similar to Hal Higdon's Ultimate Marathon Training Guide, it gives you a good training guideline on what your mileages should look like.&nbsp;</li></ol><div>I will do a posting later about the specific training plans I used to train for a marathon / half-marathon, but in a nutshell they do follow an algorithm where you build up with no more than 10% mileage increase a week and then you would do long runs followed by a taper period where you decrease dramatically in mileage.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>B) Shoes:</b><br />It is a deception that all you need is a pair of shoes. It is slightly more complicated than that. The reason being is that the way our feet moves are different between different individuals. Without getting into too much detail on the anatomy, the movement of your feet when you are moving is called a gait cycle. In gait cycles of some people, pronation (there's two types, under or over can occur). In general, people can either: underpronate, overpronate or neutral). In general, it is beneficial for you to know what type of foot you are. The type of foot you are will help determine what type of shoe you need. Conversely, for the 3 types of feet are 3 types of shoes that are made for that.<br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Personally, I have flat feet (and I pronate and when I started, I ran in a pair of discount Nike free-runs I got at the outlet. Free runs are more of a neutral shoe (if you pronate, you need more support so I kept getting shin-splits and stress fractures without knowing why and how I ended up with them). It wasn't until I spoke with people that also run that made me realize it was the problem with my shoes. Here are some good reads/ tips:<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Visit a running store (specific running stores have people who can help assess your foot type and make a recommendation on what shoe would fit you. After you determine the type of shoe that is for you, your options on what shoes you can get and your price range can be determined. *note - do not buy shoes that are too old (shoes generally have a special adhesive these days, and the adhesive usually oxidizes with time meaning that the impact&nbsp;</li><li>Some people need orthotics, this is often more pricier (but can be covered by some insurance if you have them.&nbsp;</li><li>Some sites to check out:</li><ul><li><a href="https://www.runningshoesguru.com/2009/03/3-types-of-running-shoes-for-3-types-of-feet/">https://www.runningshoesguru.com/2009/03/3-types-of-running-shoes-for-3-types-of-feet/</a></li><li>More information can be found here: <a href="https://www.runnersworld.com/pronation">https://www.runnersworld.com/pronation</a></li></ul></ul><br /><br /><b>C) Clothes and socks.</b><br />&nbsp; &nbsp;It always makes me cringe to watch people wear cotton and run. I used to be a cotton wearer myself, until I realized that the fabric itself - even though it is great for doing leisurely things, is actually pretty horrendous for endurance sports. The reason is that cotton soaks up sweat and moisture, but it does not release them easily. This causes friction for chafing and also just having moist sweat stuck to your skin for a prolonged period of time is gross and not good for the skin anyway. Mind you, this does not mean you should go out there and search for super expensive workout clothes.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; As a general rule of thumb, avoid cotton and go for either a blend or some sort of polyester. You can get a decent workout clothes for really cheap (I would say $10- $30 is sufficient). I'll do more of a blogpost on this later as we can get super particular on this topic.<br /><br /><br /><b>D) Nutrition:&nbsp;</b><br />Nutrition is VERY IMPORTANT in the grand scheme of running. In a nutshell, your cardio level occurs in zones (and it's different for everyone). The zones determine what type of respiration you are doing and what kind of nutrients are being used. For example, if you are at zone 5, your body will be exercising at maximum and searching for the fastest form of energy (simple sugars). Marathon and Half-Marathong running is about being economical on nutrient usage, and fat burn (zone 3/4) is way more economical as fat cells contain more energy but it's much harder to burn than carbs. Knowing this will help you determine your fat burn and calorie needs. There are books written just on this topic. However, if we had to break down the importance of nutrition, here are some key things I learned:<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>If you eat more than you burn, you will get fat no matter how much you exercise. I know some runners who eat a crazy amount of food (I know I'm a hippocrite as this is a food blog, but some people eat way more than I do) and the rationale for them is that because they run alot, they can eat alot... that is no where near true.&nbsp;</li><li>What you eat is super important! Getting those protein, vitamin and carbs in at a balance is important. Depending on your cardio zone, what you burn is different. The general rule of thumb and rationale I have is that getting those proteins and vitamins in helps repair the body after a workout.&nbsp;</li></ul><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ypotROJ66W4/Wk6BkEzA4BI/AAAAAAAAErA/692FkN1O0ZgEjgvi3O1vHH6lhp17yTj3QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/HR-chart.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ypotROJ66W4/Wk6BkEzA4BI/AAAAAAAAErA/692FkN1O0ZgEjgvi3O1vHH6lhp17yTj3QCK4BGAYYCw/s400/HR-chart.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cardio Zones (created by the YWCA of Saskatchewan). I chose this because it looks nice and it illustrates my point.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><b>E) Education pays off in the long run</b><br />I've always been a science and medicine nerd. Always be open to learning more things. There are always new discoveries in sport science that helps us further understand our bodies better. An example is Nike's Breaking 2:00. Those shoes that were worn (and all running shoes in general) actually have teams of engineers working with medical professionals in designing more efficient shoes. The nutrition of the athlete also has dietitians and more medical professionals in helping determine what to eat so that our bodies can operate better. All of this is still an ongoing research, and the only best way to know how to do things better is by learning. You will be surprised at how many people are closed minded (including me sometimes - haha).<br /><br /><b>F) Cutting the bullsh*t: </b>There's a lot of people who buy tons and tons of products to assist them with running. This can go from supplements (that are just super high in sugar) to super fancy workout clothes. For example, I've seen people buy tons of gel packs and then eats a ton of them when their runs aren't even that long. These gels contain so much sugar and calories that taking them constantly while the body has no need for that much sugar just piles up as unhealthy weight and money spent. Everything should be relative and I'm not saying products, supplements and gel packs are bad, but just use common sense when<br /><br />*I'll post more about this later<br /><br />Well that is all for now, I will be posting more later! For more information, sign up for my newsletter at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mikehsiao.net/mh100news">https://www.mikehsiao.net/mh100news</a><br />Have comments or other information? Please feel free to comment below.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/WsIykMUvSyo" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/marathon-half-marathon-training-info-if.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-64808465763392628932018-01-03T10:04:00.001-08:002018-01-03T10:04:49.344-08:00One of the most best Japanese Restaurants in Vancouver (Hi Genki Japanese Restaurant Review)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gazOlbKMc2A/WkxD_OnfuAI/AAAAAAAAEp0/Y58d397EslACXrz097mLE435EUhcoPzGACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26540713_10155061686821135_1619449336_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gazOlbKMc2A/WkxD_OnfuAI/AAAAAAAAEp0/Y58d397EslACXrz097mLE435EUhcoPzGACK4BGAYYCw/s200/26540713_10155061686821135_1619449336_o.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pDWRi8X1o1I/WkxD_DX0e1I/AAAAAAAAEp4/FmGEjddfsbcvBX2e24hc_lQZfGHCy5s4QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26543352_10155061686836135_1937518338_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pDWRi8X1o1I/WkxD_DX0e1I/AAAAAAAAEp4/FmGEjddfsbcvBX2e24hc_lQZfGHCy5s4QCK4BGAYYCw/s200/26543352_10155061686836135_1937518338_o.jpg" width="112" /></a>Vancouver is not short of Japanese restaurants. However, many Japanese restaurants are pretty mediocre. They all seem to serve the same kind of sushi (as if they followed a book for dummies called "How to open up a Japanese restaurant"). Hi Genki stands out from the rest and is hands down one of the best Japanese restaurants in town. Don't let the fact that it is located inside of a senior's care home, but don't let that fool you. The food here is authentic, decent, and priced fairly good.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qi4hi60KuwI/WkxD_ZYlX5I/AAAAAAAAEp8/ujuPjvhzTTQyNRVpMWBAcibeTT5_ztvbwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26539989_10155061686691135_1128991180_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qi4hi60KuwI/WkxD_ZYlX5I/AAAAAAAAEp8/ujuPjvhzTTQyNRVpMWBAcibeTT5_ztvbwCK4BGAYYCw/s200/26539989_10155061686691135_1128991180_o.jpg" width="112" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L9aFvEfndUA/WkxD_lgtYkI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/BnEMAwS1AigbLLGKK0wktQXFBKbn8P0SACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26513721_10155061686711135_1964869006_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L9aFvEfndUA/WkxD_lgtYkI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/BnEMAwS1AigbLLGKK0wktQXFBKbn8P0SACK4BGAYYCw/s200/26513721_10155061686711135_1964869006_o.jpg" width="200" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;When it comes to selection at Hi Genki, you won't find things like sushi rolls here. What they are most special for (in my opinion) is for meals and sets. They don't have a huge menu selection here like many restaurants, but maybe that's why it's a good place to eat because they focus on quality. I find that most of the food they serve here are all Japanese homestyle cooking. For example, for their fish combos (like their Mackerel set, it comes with fish, rice, soup and vegetables), or their donburi sets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div>They do have a few selections that are quite special. I find that their tempura and potato croquettes are different than the ones you would find at other food places. It seems like the frying is done with fresh oil (rather than oil that's been recycled for a while) and that the actual quality of the food is fresher.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_syjBqrYRvc/WkxD_rmHizI/AAAAAAAAEqM/J941PCyOw94_CpCGIrmxW96JXCbM5-BlQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26653343_10155061686816135_1253502025_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_syjBqrYRvc/WkxD_rmHizI/AAAAAAAAEqM/J941PCyOw94_CpCGIrmxW96JXCbM5-BlQCK4BGAYYCw/s200/26653343_10155061686816135_1253502025_o.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbiAp-hAxQs/WkxD_2sDeSI/AAAAAAAAEqU/dkEZqyozAtQpENrGg-whPm_o68H29BvrgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/26610318_10155061686666135_1512800170_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbiAp-hAxQs/WkxD_2sDeSI/AAAAAAAAEqU/dkEZqyozAtQpENrGg-whPm_o68H29BvrgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/26610318_10155061686666135_1512800170_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>When I was here, I got the chicken katsu curry. The difference between Japanese curry and Indian curry is the spices. Japanese curry isn't as intense in flavour as Indian curry. The curry comes with a salad, half a boiled egg, a chicken katsu fillet and rice. It was very good in the sense that it didn't taste overly strong or greasy. For $10, it is definitely a very good value and portion.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Overall, I highly recommend this restaurant. It is authentic and priced very well.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tips:&nbsp;</b></div><div>1. Arrive early (or later), they are usually really busy.<br />2. Parking is free underground or streetside<br />3. Be mindful that this is a senior's home, so if you are sick, don't visit.&nbsp;</div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/JemeZmwOQJ0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/one-of-most-best-japanese-restaurants.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-37800797039047631782018-01-01T23:23:00.001-08:002018-01-01T23:23:36.181-08:00The ramen place that doesn't take cash - Marutama Ramen Robson<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">When you are in Vancouver, there are three things you are not short of are: sushi, yoga pants and ramen. There are many ramen places in Vancouver and when I choose a ramen place, I take into consideration price, quality, taste and location and Marutama is one of the best ramen places that meets those considerations.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;This location is usually busy, so it's best to come here right when they open. I usually get the original ramen (without the egg, let's be honest, if I had to pay $2 more for an egg I might as well make my own eggs at home for much cheaper). The ramen is pretty decent in size, however I usually get the extra noodles on the side (you can pay $1.50 for an extra bowl of noodles to add to your soup. Note, this is just noodles and it doesn't come with soup). I usually request the extra noodles to come at the same time as my ramen, then I add it together. The funny thing is that the noodles soak up all of the soup until there is practically no soup left.<br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N85XfoOdNrg/WksmDXuhaVI/AAAAAAAAEpY/R460Oalx65g2T6PpQQc0Pim-i3m47yXNACLcBGAs/s1600/26553220_10155059761251135_1993095287_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="497" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N85XfoOdNrg/WksmDXuhaVI/AAAAAAAAEpY/R460Oalx65g2T6PpQQc0Pim-i3m47yXNACLcBGAs/s320/26553220_10155059761251135_1993095287_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />That said, the taste of these noodles are really good. It isn't too greasy like many other ramen, and the noodles are the thin types that are very tasty. It reminds me of a type of noodles (they call them dry noodles) in Taiwan that I had when I was younger. They also have small jars of fried shallots, spices and sesame seeds on the tables. Adding these fried shallots add SO MUCH flavour to the ramen.<br /><br />The interesting thing about this place is that they don't accept cash. That is definitely a very interesting move considering that many places are the opposite. I asked a waitress when I was here why that was and she wasn't able to give me an answer. I do suspect it might have something to do with how they don't want to deal with the hassle of handling cash (like counting and etc...). At the same time, I'm sure this would turn away many customers. Overall, I highly recommend this ramen place, and I would definitely come back again.<br /><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/kRA3mx3qrE0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-ramen-place-that-doesnt-take-cash.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-86950124718761433142018-01-01T11:07:00.001-08:002018-01-01T11:07:05.585-08:00New Year's Sun Rise on Mount Seymour and Reflections<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ghdZUi8V61Y/WkqGm3XCN2I/AAAAAAAAEpE/FmG-LzfkW5M7Fw4xB-v-C3ahqED4lvxkgCLcBGAs/s1600/26551063_10155058706966135_504167769_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="462" height="120" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ghdZUi8V61Y/WkqGm3XCN2I/AAAAAAAAEpE/FmG-LzfkW5M7Fw4xB-v-C3ahqED4lvxkgCLcBGAs/s200/26551063_10155058706966135_504167769_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yr0G0NdLqmM/WkqGnp-tx9I/AAAAAAAAEpI/zGLUOhuYU5UkDFpCxfAnRau1smx5yoC_ACLcBGAs/s1600/26241242_10155058706916135_1449714793_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="280" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yr0G0NdLqmM/WkqGnp-tx9I/AAAAAAAAEpI/zGLUOhuYU5UkDFpCxfAnRau1smx5yoC_ACLcBGAs/s200/26241242_10155058706916135_1449714793_n.jpg" width="112" /></a>Mount Seymour is probably one of the places that is facing east that you can see a decent sunrise. My friends and I got up extra early on New Year's day to try to catch a glimpse of the first sun rise. The mountain roads open at 7AM but by the time we got there, a decent lineup was forming to go up. Along the way up, the sun was peeping through the mountains as the reflections of the sun was showing. Once we found a viewing point at the side of the road, we pulled over. As I reflected on 2017, I thought of a word that could encompass the year. Transitions - that's how I would describe 2017 if it comes down to just one word. Change happened at a speed of light for me in 2017. Not only change in speed of life, but ultimately the change in paradigm. I'll admit, my perception of the world was much different walking into to 2017 than walking out. I learned much more and definitely learning has taught me to be more humble and to be open yet confidence. Sometimes life isn't meant to have an answer, but rather what is to be enjoyed is the journey to find the answer. Thank you to everyone for your support, friendship and being there for me. I wish you all a happy new year and may the new year bring you hope and prosperity. 😘<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lpi3Xb-dVso/WkqGmuYKzUI/AAAAAAAAEpA/GiNz6gEcs1YTBSXRIwKp2EUz07GvlfeSQCLcBGAs/s1600/26551818_10155058706856135_328037639_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="280" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lpi3Xb-dVso/WkqGmuYKzUI/AAAAAAAAEpA/GiNz6gEcs1YTBSXRIwKp2EUz07GvlfeSQCLcBGAs/s640/26551818_10155058706856135_328037639_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/Dtbo67ZxXjQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2018/01/new-years-sun-rise-on-mount-seymour-and.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-25893406538399931192017-12-29T14:01:00.001-08:002017-12-29T14:01:42.712-08:00Decent Japanese and Korean Cuisine Fusion (Hon Sushi Kingsway )<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6VILoRAFCNE/Wka4D_0jVEI/AAAAAAAAEoM/Pn42vS_Sm6Ed-fyWUYt9uXc08FXeihwEgCHMYCw/s1600/20171227_190553_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6VILoRAFCNE/Wka4D_0jVEI/AAAAAAAAEoM/Pn42vS_Sm6Ed-fyWUYt9uXc08FXeihwEgCHMYCw/s200/20171227_190553_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p071Oz-0f9Q/Wka4DM085tI/AAAAAAAAEoI/gg2aOLZrYKIIfHbRWEFGt39__7WEBWvwACHMYCw/s1600/20171227_190548_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p071Oz-0f9Q/Wka4DM085tI/AAAAAAAAEoI/gg2aOLZrYKIIfHbRWEFGt39__7WEBWvwACHMYCw/s200/20171227_190548_HDR.jpg" width="112" /></a>Hidden on the second floor of a Earls Restuarant, Hon Sushi is one of my favourite go-to places for food when I am around.&nbsp; I love coming to this place because it is always not too busy and the place is pretty spacious. Overall, the cost of food here is slightly higher than average (the reason being that the portions are not too big).<br /><br /><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u1023KiSL-Q/Wka4bcSiJmI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/E-PR2Cz4j_wKaELGKNE6EEjMtrVT5EeOACHMYCw/s1600/20171104_181439_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u1023KiSL-Q/Wka4bcSiJmI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/E-PR2Cz4j_wKaELGKNE6EEjMtrVT5EeOACHMYCw/s200/20171104_181439_HDR.jpg" width="112" /></a><b>Sushi - </b>Their sushi is a bit on the expensive end in my opinion. For example, they sell their spicy tuna rolls for $4.95 a roll and their dynamite roll for $5.95 a roll. In comparison, the portions of these rolls are fairly small. You can get the same sized rolls for around a dollar cheaper at other places. That said, the quality is pretty decent and tastes good. Also, they spend time on the presentation of the sushi, so you will always find condiments or little vegetables accompanying the sushi.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0zP9jW_Wf_g/Wka7N7f6tSI/AAAAAAAAEog/Sp9zFctvFJo9seEFCzlQF7GhOvHTCb56QCLcBGAs/s1600/26510815_10155051697406135_1969103114_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1080" height="196" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0zP9jW_Wf_g/Wka7N7f6tSI/AAAAAAAAEog/Sp9zFctvFJo9seEFCzlQF7GhOvHTCb56QCLcBGAs/s200/26510815_10155051697406135_1969103114_o.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>Korean Hotpot - </b>I am not Korean so I don't really know a good benchmark for Korean food. However, when I was here, I shared a hotpot with my&nbsp;+1. They said there are two sizes for the hotpots, one for 2 people and the other for 2-3 people. We ordered the large size. They brought the hotpot in a gas stove and then a selection of condiments on the side. I absolutely loved the condiments such as the edamame, sweet potatoes and kimchi. The hotpot itself was alright. What I noticed was that it was full of processed food. There were alot of Spam and sausages as well as packaged ramen noodles. That said, the price was not too expensive (so what can you expect right?<br /><br /><br /><b>Korean Fried Chicken</b> - This was probably my favourite dish. I know... eating stuff like this isn't too healthy but letting loose a bit sometimes won't hurt. Their fried chicken is always freshly fried and the juices of the chicken are all locked inside the crispy layers of the chicken. I definitely recommend this.<br /><br />Overall, this is a pretty decent place to come to. More because of the venue (as it's not too busy and it is very accessible). The price is a bit on the higher end, but the trade off is you get a nice venue.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/grBzYVlUL20" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com01902 E Belt Line Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006, USA32.9532478 -96.88957729999998511.6060233 -138.19817129999998 54.300472299999996 -55.580983299999986http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2017/12/decent-japanese-and-korean-cuisine.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-11978989576256729512017-12-27T10:46:00.000-08:002017-12-27T11:00:47.322-08:00Lights at Lafarge Lake - Free family holiday lights event<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sIK5rsMQvvQ/WkPSvbnOptI/AAAAAAAAEnI/GHSd8qZKpqwXMdarq58MoMzaI8N_SMqDgCHMYCw/s1600/20171213_211929_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sIK5rsMQvvQ/WkPSvbnOptI/AAAAAAAAEnI/GHSd8qZKpqwXMdarq58MoMzaI8N_SMqDgCHMYCw/s200/20171213_211929_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a>If I had to describe this place in one word, that would be WOW! There are so many light displays coupled with the natural setting of Lafarge Lake, it is just gorgeous. In addition, it is all free and walking through all of the lights (the lights span the ENTIRE circumference of the lake) takes a good 30 minutes (if you walk fast). When I was there, it took me about an hour to walk around all the displays. I saw many people with their dogs and families so it's a great family event. The lights are on display until mid-January and it is on everyday until 11PM.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><b>My experience when I was there:</b></div><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dL1O12nj0Bw/WkPSv4iMEsI/AAAAAAAAEnM/__MjRd0OAmQxd2CLxNKWC83eYjB2uTS2ACHMYCw/s1600/20171213_205832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dL1O12nj0Bw/WkPSv4iMEsI/AAAAAAAAEnM/__MjRd0OAmQxd2CLxNKWC83eYjB2uTS2ACHMYCw/s200/20171213_205832.jpg" width="200" /></a>I was here with my friends. We drove and parked at the north parking lot. It was relatively busy, and there were many families around. Small children, dogs, couples... you name it.</div><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0VXzWPjRIjk/WkPTyDEOmrI/AAAAAAAAEnU/aUI6CVk0djkt8SnplfYYcGJx9BZEr7WoACHMYCw/s1600/20171213_205024_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0VXzWPjRIjk/WkPTyDEOmrI/AAAAAAAAEnU/aUI6CVk0djkt8SnplfYYcGJx9BZEr7WoACHMYCw/s200/20171213_205024_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;We began our stroll on the west side of the lake and the first thing we saw were light arches that extended all the way around the west side of the lake. The arches is really good photo material (if there were less people). There were also many small displays like Mario-kart like mushroom lights, and lights up trees. Towards the middle of the lake, you can see lights resembling animals as well as a fountain with lights underneath it. On the hill side of the lake, there is a display that writes "Canada". At first, looking at the displays close, it looks like "@ Canada" or "(c) Canada" (depending on who is looking at the lights).&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_OcFy4xoqP8/WkPTzoVoVvI/AAAAAAAAEng/4u0WLDjAFUwq4VMMuJ88mR7IiMOsRMy6gCHMYCw/s1600/20171213_214144_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_OcFy4xoqP8/WkPTzoVoVvI/AAAAAAAAEng/4u0WLDjAFUwq4VMMuJ88mR7IiMOsRMy6gCHMYCw/s200/20171213_214144_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a>Towards the end of the arches, you will see a very cute family of reindeer made out of lights.&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hY4mhDIzVkI/WkPT0I5RXwI/AAAAAAAAEnk/ab9f06yZL78k7j7_P1bDh9iO-DrBCY26gCHMYCw/s1600/20171213_213015_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hY4mhDIzVkI/WkPT0I5RXwI/AAAAAAAAEnk/ab9f06yZL78k7j7_P1bDh9iO-DrBCY26gCHMYCw/s200/20171213_213015_HDR.jpg" width="112" /></a>We proceeded all the way around the lake. There were displays of elves on the benches and waterfalls done using lights and more. My favourite was a dining table that was covered in lights with chandelier made up of lights. The surrounding environment of the lake and the lone dining table gave the lights a mystical feel.&nbsp; There are more lights like a caterpillar tunnel, sky lanterns and more.&nbsp; The circumference of the lake is almost a kilometer, and the lights surround the entire area.&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Overall, I would definitely recommend coming here. Besides it being free, there are just SO MANY displays. Unlike many free displays where there are only small drizzles of lights, this place has ALOT of lights to see and you will find yourself here for an hour or more.&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><b>Tips:</b></div><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y2P72HjCHQQ/WkPTyiPxxbI/AAAAAAAAEnY/C1gpiRQ6Wd8zLttEOnrPhnSydM9qhd6wACHMYCw/s1600/20171213_212610_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y2P72HjCHQQ/WkPTyiPxxbI/AAAAAAAAEnY/C1gpiRQ6Wd8zLttEOnrPhnSydM9qhd6wACHMYCw/s200/20171213_212610_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a>1. Because there aren't any concession stands (at least I didn't see one when I was there), it is a good idea to bring your own warm hot beverage. I'm a person who feels naked when I watch lights without a hot beverage so I made a pit stop at McDonalds' before coming here.</div><div dir="ltr">2. If you are bringing your dog, remember to bring a leash. There are many families and dogs here.</div><div dir="ltr"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OM_wZd8Pc-c/WkPTzMg63WI/AAAAAAAAEnc/pnjWFe6L-8YjKbxiXXA5Ifc0eTzZLsbuwCHMYCw/s1600/20171213_213533_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OM_wZd8Pc-c/WkPTzMg63WI/AAAAAAAAEnc/pnjWFe6L-8YjKbxiXXA5Ifc0eTzZLsbuwCHMYCw/s200/20171213_213533_HDR.jpg" width="200" /></a>3. If you want to bring your&nbsp;+1, remember that this is a family event, so if you want to be super touchy-feely... don't forget there are kids watching</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><b>Transportation</b> <b>/ Getting here</b><br />1. Transit: Lafarge Lake is located conveniently at the Lafarge Lake Skytrain station. <br />2. Driving: There are a surprising amount of car parking here. The city parking is free but there's also paid parking. I would still say transit is the best. </div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><b>Here is the official event website:</b></div><div dir="ltr">http://www.coquitlam.ca/parks-recreation-and-culture/arts-and-culture/special-events-calendar/LightsatLafarge.aspx</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pP1uiCZZGqo/WkPt2KGiulI/AAAAAAAAEn4/eozxZd2KkqA1vrU1Jj2_Fe6gbxBKpFxKwCHMYCw/s1600/20171213_213524_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pP1uiCZZGqo/WkPt2KGiulI/AAAAAAAAEn4/eozxZd2KkqA1vrU1Jj2_Fe6gbxBKpFxKwCHMYCw/s640/20171213_213524_HDR.jpg"> </a> </div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/dctKhe4v_wg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0Lafarge Lake, Coquitlam, BC V3B, Canada49.2862673 -122.7889959000000349.2810888 -122.79908090000004 49.2914458 -122.77891090000003http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2017/12/lafarge-lake-lights.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6101500256986130558.post-46192978016636249992017-07-02T18:21:00.000-07:002017-07-02T18:21:55.486-07:00Oliver Twist Pub - All Menu Items $4.95! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">If you are looking for a vintage bar and pub with relatively cheap food in Burnaby, this is the place to be. Everything on the menu is $4.95 and they aren't kidding. That business model is very similar to those in the Warehouse in Vancouver, however the dining environment is very different. Oliver Twist Pub is a sports pub and the facilities itself is decently big. The building itself is very vintage, sort of built in an Irish/ German manner. We came here on Canada day as my friends and I were in the area for Canada Day festivities.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KUYNnG-_pWM/WVmIP_UHE9I/AAAAAAAAEmU/feueeg8tK1EqlYB4a4op2I0DKUaUlCG4QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/19650458_10154576719411135_35049078_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KUYNnG-_pWM/WVmIP_UHE9I/AAAAAAAAEmU/feueeg8tK1EqlYB4a4op2I0DKUaUlCG4QCK4BGAYYCw/s200/19650458_10154576719411135_35049078_o.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />When we arrived, it was cool to see the insides of the pub. It is very spacious with a first floor and second floor area. The first floor has very high ceilings and the second floor is built so that you can see all of the first floor. There are four giant screens that play sports above the bar area. The only thing worth mentioning is that when we arrived, the scent of alcohol was strong. I can tell that they try their best to maintain the facilities, but it is a bit on the vintage side.<br />We decided to grab a corner on the second floor, and the waitress came to get our drinks and orders.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cq1w9s43ji4/WVmIHxE9KsI/AAAAAAAAEmM/Gth_TEz60Fs_YaECVApr4Mi6deOSyNpMACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/19650083_10156042674522119_806505660_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cq1w9s43ji4/WVmIHxE9KsI/AAAAAAAAEmM/Gth_TEz60Fs_YaECVApr4Mi6deOSyNpMACK4BGAYYCw/s200/19650083_10156042674522119_806505660_o.jpg" width="150" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp; I remember it was a bit warm on the second floor, so she tried to open the windows, but they were jammed because it seemed like they haven't been opened in a while. After her failed attempt at opening the windows, she brought us the menu. It was interesting because the menu was a piece of paper that they photocopied and they only had one copy of... so our entire table had to share (which I didn't really mind).<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; Taking a quick look at the menu, there are quite a bit of things to order, which is great. There is a wide selection of wings, and some other things like wraps and burgers. I wanted something that was a bit more filling so I decided to grab a wrap while my friends decided to grab the wings.The wraps and burgers also came with fries, which is great.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Since there were only two servers, it did take a while for the food to be delivered. &nbsp;When the food came, I was starving. The taste of the wrap itself is pretty average, although the fries were good. It was freshly made. The only thing I do have to comment on is the fact that the portions weren't really that big... but what can you expect for $4.95? That said, it is higher quality than fast food, but the portions itself were not big.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp;Overall, I would come here again for the food because of its price.<br /><br />http://www.olivertwistpub.ca/menu/</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TravellingWhere-ever/~4/v4JLY8zdU3g" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Mike Hsiaohttps://plus.google.com/102468132131854797076noreply@blogger.com0http://vantraveller.blogspot.com/2017/07/oliver-twist-pub-all-menu-items-495.html